Biographical Album - 1891 - Surnames T-V
THOMAS TAYLOR Page 500
The farming and stock-breeding interests of Waynesville Township, DeWitt County, are well represented by the gentleman above named. For the past twenty years he has been engaged in breeding Merino sheep and hogs, shipping his stock to all parts of the United States. He has also carried on quite extensive agricultural work. He makes of his occupation both an art and a science, has surrounded his dwelling with the substantial improvements which stamp his estate as a well-regulated one, and is recognized by his associates as a man of progressive ideas and advanced views regarding his vocation. A view of his fine estate is presented on another page of this volume.
In the paternal line Mr. Taylor is of Irish extraction, his grandfather having immigrated from the Emerald Isle to Maryland. In his early life he was captain of a vessel, but he afterward gave his attention to farming. During the early settlement of Perry County, Ohio, he went thither, making his home in a town called Rehoboth. He reared six sons and two daughters, one of them being Joseph, who was born in Virginia in 1797. This son accompanied his father to the Buckeye State and there married Leatha Gardner, who was born in Maryland in 1801. She, like her husband, was of Irish ancestry, her grandfather having been the first of the family to make a home in America. Her father, John Gardner, was born in Maryland, but during her childhood removed to Perry County, Ohio, and many years afterward came to Mattoon, Ill., where he died. He was twice married and reared a large family, consisting of eight sons and five daughters.
In 1837 the parents of our subject came to Illinois, traveling with a team and making a settlement on section 15, Waynesville Township, DeWitt County. Two years later they changed their place of abode to section 13, then spent a year in the village of Waynesville, after which they removed to McLean County. There Mr. Taylor had bought three hundred and twenty acres of land which he occupied until 1846. He then retuned to DeWitt County, paid $1500 for two hundred and twenty-five acres on section 15, Waynesville Township, and made it his home during the balance of his life. The death of Mr. Taylor occurred in Sacramento, Cal., on what is known as Bear Island in October, 1849. He had left his home in April with three teams to convey a party to the Golden State, landing in Sacramento July 3. He was an honored member of the Masonic fraternity and a worthy citizen. The parental family consisted of ten children, named respectively: Mary P., Andrew J., Margaret, Thomas and John, twins; Joseph P., Elizabeth, George W., Catherine and William M. Four of the sons--Andrew, John, Joseph and George, were soldiers during the Civil War, the first-named being a Lieutenant in the Twentieth Illinois Infantry, the next two privates in the One Hundred and Seventh, and George a private in the Second Illinois Cavalry. Andrew is now living in Butler, Mo.; John and William in Protection, Kan.; Joseph in Ottawa, Kan., and Catherine deceased.
Thomas Taylor, the subject of this notice, is a native of DeWitt County, having been born in Waynesville Township, October 10, 1838. With the exception of about three years his life has been spent on the homestead of which he now owns one hundred and sixty-eight acres. He received his education in the common schools and, like all men of good intellect, had added much to his knowledge by means of personal observation and reading. After his father's death, he and his brother John took charge of the farm, on which he has since lived with the exception of two years spent in McLean County. He has made fine improvements continuing the work that had been begun by his progenitor and thus adding to the value of the property. He owns altogether two hundred and eight acres which form a farm of sufficient size to enable him to carry on his chosen work efficiently.
December 26, 1861, Mr. Taylor was wedded to Rachel Clayton, a native of Perry County, Ohio, and daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Moore) Clayton. Her parents, who were natives of Ohio, and belonged to the farming community, died in Logan County, this State. Mrs. Taylor was a member of the Christian Church, a conscientious worker at home and in society, and one who looked well to the ways of her household, deeming it her first duty. She was called from time to eternity, August 10, 1880. She had borne her husband four children--John, Minnie, Jesse C. and Harry H. The first-born died when three years old; Minnie is now the wife of Sherman Buck. Mr. Taylor won for his second wife Martha A. Border, a daughter of Andrew J. and Harriet (Leigh) Borders. This lady was born in the Hoosier Sate. She is a capable housekeeper, a woman of intelligent mind and Christian character. The union has been blest by the birth of three children--Forest, Nellie and Noble.
The principles of the Democracy find a supporter in Mr. Taylor. Of the social orders he is identified with the Masonic fraternity and the religious belief of himself and wife finds its expression in the principles and practices of the Christian Church. Mr. Taylor not only occupies a leading position among the members of the agricultural class, but is honored and respected in business and social circles on account of his intelligence and uprightness of character.
WILLIAM H. TAYLOR, M. D. Page 983
William H. Taylor, M. D., has for many years been engaged in the practice of his profession at Weldon and is well known throughout DeWitt County.He was born in Stark County, Ohio, June 15, 1846, to James B. Taylor, a native of England, and Sarah P. (Hall) Taylor, a native of Philadelphia, Pa. The parents were married in Mahoning County, Ohio, and remained in that State until 1853 when, removing to Indiana, the father engaged in the practice of medicine.He had previously been a manufacturer of buggies, wagons, etc.His last years were spent in Hicksville, Ohio, where he died in 1888.The mother is still living and makes her home in Hicksville. There were born unto the parents of our subject twelve children, of whom six survive, as follows: Priscilla P., who resides in Ohio; William H.; Edward E., a resident of York Center, Ind.; James M. and Adella R., who make their home in Hicksville, Ohio; and Olive, also a resident of the Buckeye State. Our subject remained with his parents until he was sixteen years old and obtained his primary education in the district schools. At the age of thirteen years he entered the academy at Orland, Ind., and remained in school until the Civil War broke out. Although so young, he was fired with patriotic zeal, and in 1863 enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Indiana Infantry, and participated in many important engagements, among them Resaca, Atlanta and Franklin, Tenn. He was honorably discharged August 29, 1865, having served his country with all the ardor of youth, and that devotion to country, which is a prominent characteristic.
From the battlefields Mr. Taylor returned to his father’s home in Newville, Ind., and for one term was engaged as a teacher in De Kalb County. Later he was employed as a clerk in a store in Newville, his leisure moments being devoted to the study of medicine. Preparatory to engaging in active practice, he took two courses of lectures, of six months each, at Ann Arbor, Mich. Returning from college, he located in Pleasant Lake, Ind., whence, after a year’s sojourn he removed to Marshall, Ill., going from there to Chicago, then to DeWitt, and after residing a year in the latter place, he settled at Weldon. His knowledge of therapeutics is quite extensive. In 1883 he was graduated from the Keokuk Medical College and has attended lectures at the Chicago and Rush Medical Colleges, Chicago. Having made Weldon his home for about twenty years, he has become well known throughout the community, and his attainments and skill as a physician are unquestioned.
On August 4, 1867, Dr. Taylor and Miss Rocellia D. Beggs were united in marriage at Newville, Ind. The bride is the daughter of Joseph and Margaret Beggs and was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, January 31, 1849. At the age of six years she was brought to Indiana and there reared and educated. To Dr. Taylor and his estimable wife five children have been born, two died in infancy. The others are: Elwin E., Nellie and Carl. Elwin E., who is now seventeen years old, is attending the medical college at Keokuk, Iowa. He was a student at Normal one year, and for the same length of time attended school at Eureka.
In connection with his practice Dr. Taylor is the proprietor of a drug store. He has also become considerably interested in agricultural matters, and owns an eighty acre farm in DeWitt Township, beside owning an interest in another farm in the same township. Politically, he is an earnest Republican, and has served as Supervisor three years, and is now School Director. Socially, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being Prominent in both organizations. In all the positions to which he has been called by his fellow-citizens he has sustained his reputation as an able businessman and an honorable official.
JOHN T. TEAL Page 303
DeWitt County is the place of abode of many men who have won a competence by tilling the soil and in the meantime have made themselves useful in society and gained an honored name. Barnett Township is not without her share of these worthy citizens and enterprising agriculturists, and we are pleased to present to our readers the principal facts in the life of one of them, John T. Teal. He is a native of the county that honors by his residence and is one of the generation upon whom the benefits of civilization have descended as a result of the pioneer labors.
The natal day of Mr. Teal was May 30, 1849, and his birthplace Waynesville Township. His parents, William and Nancy (Marvel) Teal, are numbered among the agricultural class, and the lad received the early instruction in farm life and rural affairs that is generally given to farmers' sons. He was fortunate in having good educational privileges, first studying the common English branches in the district school and then continuing the pursuit of knowledge under the tutelage of Prof. Turner in Waynesville. He had some experience as a teacher, thus deepening his impressions, clinching his knowledge as it were, at the same time doing good in conveying instruction to others.
When but twenty-one years old Mr. Teal made his first purchase of land, one hundred acres near Midland, which he traded for one hundred and sixty acres where he now resides. Here he began farming when twenty-four years of age, since which time he has rapidly gained in repute as an agriculturist, being enterprising and full of the spirit of progress. His estate is on section 19, and the passer-by sees there every indication of thorough tillage and judicious improvement.
The dwelling and home economy is in the care of a capable housekeeper and tasteful woman, who became the wife of Mr. Teal August 26, 1873. Prior to that day she bore the name of Fannie Garrett. She was born in Harrison County, Ky., being a daughter of John and Polly (Bell) Garrett. (See sketch of Joseph Garrett on another page of this Album.) The happy union of Mr. and Mrs. Teal has been blessed to them by the birth of seven children, the living being Daisy B., Asa A., Myra M., William P., Grace E. and Bertha E. They are being carefully trained in ways of usefulness and honor, the parents being devoted and active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. Teal is a member in high standing of the Masonic lodge. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party and is a member of the Central Committee of his township, was Commissioner nine years and Tax Collector three years.
WILEY M. TEAL Page 335
Wiley M. Teal is the youngest of the three sons of William and Nancy (Marvel) Teal. He was born on the farm where he is now living with his father and where he is actively engaged in tilling the soil and in stock-breeding. For the past ten years he has been interested with his father in breeding Clydesdale horses, and fine specimens of those equines may be seen upon their estate. His life has been passed in a peaceful manner, but his days have not been devoid of usefulness; on the contrary they have been spent in such a manner as to increase the status of the community in financial prosperity, good citizenship and intelligence. He is a respected member of the Masonic fraternity and by his fellow-agriculturists is held in high regard.
March 12, 1879, Wiley M. Teal and Clara M. Wilson were joined in holy wedlock; they have one son, Lester M. Mrs. Teal was born in Muscatine, Iowa, her parents being William K. and Susan (Kenton) Wilson, who were natives of Washington County, Ohio, and became residents in Iowa about 1855. There Mr. Wilson died, leaving a widow and two daughters--Ella K. and Clara M. The widow removed to DeWitt County, Ill., where she resided until her death, in 1867. The father of Mrs. Teal was of English lineage, tracing his descent from Robert Wilson of London, England. That gentleman had two sons, one of whom, Benjamin, came to America in the "Mayflower" landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620. In the second generation following was a Jeremiah Wilson, whose home was in South Kingston, R.I. In 1788 he with three sons and a daughter, together with their respective families, joined the Ohio company and established a colony at Marietta, Ohio, reaching there in April.
The eldest of the sons mentioned above was George, who paid $1,000 in specie to the Ohio Company and drew his lot on Wolf Creek. He sold that property and purchased one hundred acres adjoining the town of Beverly, where he remained until called hence. His second son, Jeremiah, who was born in Ft. Frye, near Beverly, April 25, 1791, was the second male child born in the fort or above Marietta on the Muskingum River, during the Indian War. The parents died in 1806 and 1807 respectively and the son remained with his Uncle David until he was of age. In 1815 he taught the first school ever held in Jackson Township, Noble County, Ohio, receiving $10 per month for his services. In 1819 he carried mail from Delaware, Ohio, to Lower Sandusky. He served as Postmaster at Coal Run, Washington County, twenty-one years, and was Justice of the Peace during a lengthy period. He was a lifelong member of the Republican party, and at the time of his death was the oldest Mason in the State of Ohio, having been a member of the fraternity seventy-seven years. This gentleman was married February 1, 1821, to Mary D. Kinney and their family consisted of six children--Joseph T., George, William K., Mary E., Clara B. and Jeremiah H. The third of these was the father of Mrs. Teal.
WILLIAM TEAL Page 335
The life of a farmer, although ofttimes presenting no salient features to the biographical writer, being unmarked by any event differing from those which commonly fall to the lot of mankind, is yet one of interest in its bearing on society, business and morals. Nowhere is there a better field for the exercise of the best qualities of manhood than in agricultural communities, where not only thoughts but deeds are interchanged, and the brotherhood of man is a prominent feature. Among those who in DeWitt County have been worthily filling a place among the farmers is William Teal, whose home is on section 19, Barnett Township.
In the paternal line our subject traces his descent from Nicholas Teal who came from Germany many long years ago and established a home in Virginia. Thence he removed to Gibson County, Ind., about 1806, and there spent the remnant of his days. For several years after going thither he and his fellow-frontiersmen occupied forts, as they were in continual danger from savages. In the family of this gentleman was a son Adam, who accompanied his father to the Hoosier State and in his early days worked at the trade of a blacksmith, which was the father's vocation likewise. He however, spent much of his life on a farm. He served in the War of 1812 as First Sergeant and was one of the participants in the battle of New Orleans. He was twice married, first to Hannah Gudgel, a native of Pennsylvania, who reared four children--William, Hester, Catherine and Elizabeth. The wife and mother died in 1824 and the father in 1832, after having married a Mrs. Downey.
William Teal, the eldest child of Adam and Hannah (Gudgel) Teal, was born in Gibson County, Ind., August 20, 1818, and after the death of his mother lived with a cousin, Joseph Williams, on a farm. He received but a common-school education, and when he reached his majority began life for himself as a farm hand at $8 per month. This was not his first work however, as he began teaming between Evansville and Terre Haute when thirteen years old and was allowed to retain half of his earnings. In this way he accumulated considerable stock, which he sold, investing the proceeds in eighty acres of land. This tract he afterward sold for $400. In the winter of 1843-44 he came on horseback to DeWitt county, Ill., to which he had previously made several trips, and selecting a location, made it his permanent home.
Soon after settling in this State Mr. Teal made the acquaintance of Nancy Marvel, who was born in Waynesville Township, DeWitt County, November 4, 1827, being the first white child born there. Her parents, Prettyman and Rebecca (Bary) Marvel, came to this State in 1825, located and raised a crop in Sangamon County, but in the following February came to DeWitt County. They entered eighty acres of land and by industry and prudence accumulated a large landed estate. Their first night here was spent on the snow, by a fire they had built beside a log; their first house was a shed built of poles with one end open, where they would build a huge fire. This rude structure was replaced by a cabin about twelve feet square, with a dirt floor.
Mr. and Mrs. Marvel belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and were anxious that an organization should be perfected in the pioneer settlement, and to that end invited their neighbors to meet in their home. The meetings held in their cabin led to an organization and eventually to the erection of a house of worship. Mr. and Mrs. Marvel reared ten children--John S., James, Prettyman, Wiley, George, Nancy, Cynthia and Lavina (twins), Rebecca and Mary A. After the death of the father, the mother became the wife of Thompson Gambrel. She is still living, at an advanced age, having been born in South Carolina, April 21, 1806. Her parents, John and Nancy (Hamilton) Barr, natives of Ireland and South Carolina respectively, removed to Tennessee in 1808 and to Indiana in 1810. A quarter of a century later they came to this State and spent the remainder of their lives in Logan County. They were faithful members of the Presbyterian Church and reared their five sons and four daughters carefully.
The womanly nature and useful knowledge of Miss Nancy Marvel made a lasting impression upon the heart of Mr. Teal, and his regard being reciprocated, they were united in marriage on the 12th of December, 1844. He operated the farm of his father-in-law for a few years, then purchased two hundred acres a mile east of Waynesville, subsequently trading and living on different farms until 1855, when he made a permanent settlement on section 19, Barnett Township. Here he owns two hundred and twenty-four acres, on which he has made fine improvements, and surrounded his family with comfort, giving them liberal advantages. His children--John T., Henry M. and Wiley--fully appreciate his affectionate generosity toward them and have made good use of the opportunities afforded them to acquire knowledge and fit themselves for usefulness. Mr. Teal and his wife formerly belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church, but are now among the leading members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Society. Mrs. Teal became a Christian when thirteen years old and Mr. Teal united with the church in 1844. He belongs to the order of Odd Fellows.
PATRICK TOOHILL Page 800
Note: The following Biography is a prime example of how these pieces can be wrong.The biography of Patrick Toohill states that he was born in Ireland in 1847 but then says that his father came to America in 1838. The next paragraph says that Patrick was seven or eight years old when he came to America with his parents, and then goes on to say that he moved to Illinois in 1857 and went to work for $10 a month. (He would have been ten years old at the time, if born in 1847.)
No member of the farming community of DeWitt County is more worthy of representation in this Biographical Album than this gentleman.He is one of the most extensive farmers and stock-growers of Wilson Township, where he has large landed interests and a commodious home.Mr. Toohill was born in Ireland in 1847.His father, Edmond Toohill, was also a native of that island, where he engaged as a farmer until he immigrated to America in 1838.After coming to this country he lived in the State of New York until 1857, when he took up his residence in this county.He had three sons in the army during the war, and he went to Washington to gain permission from Abraham Lincoln to see them.The President kindly gave him a pass that allowed him to go where he pleased, and he traveled much in the South and considerably through the West.His declining years were spent in the home of our subject, his death occurring in 1882, at the age of seventy-two years.He and his wife, whose maiden name was Josephine Keef, and who was born in Ireland, were both members of the Catholic Church.In his political views he was a Republican, but was independent in local matters.To him and his wife were born ten children, of whom eight grew to maturity:John, Catherine, Edward, Daniel, Patrick, Joseph, James and Ellen.The mother died when about fifty years of age.
Patrick Toohill was a boy of seven or eight years when he came to this country with his father and mother.he was reared in the State of New York and attended school some in his boyhood though he had to begin work when quite young.He came to Illinois in the spring of 1857 and settled in McLean County, where he worked one year at $10 a month. At the expiration of that time he made his way to this county and the ensuing four years worked out by the month. He was frugal and economical, and though he frequently sent money to his parents, he finally laid by enough to get a good start in life. He rented land in 1862 of Jesse Funk, of McLean County, the land lying in DeWitt County. He continued to farm as a renter until 1868, and then purchased one hundred and twenty acres on section 28, Wilson Township, which form a part of his present farm.It was then wild prairie land and not a furrow had been turned. He bought a small house for a trifle, and moving onto his land, took up his residence therein.He now has his land well drained, under admirable tillage and finely improved. He has been very successful in his enterprise and has a farm of four hundred and forty-five acres, all under cultivation.He built his present house, which is a fine, large two-story frame dwelling, in 1876, and in 1881 he built his substantial frame barn. He has farmed extensively and has dealt largely in stock, raising many cattle, horses and hogs, which he ships to the market himself.Mr. Toohill was married February 17, 1863, to Hanora Gleason, who was born in Ireland and came to America in 1852. She has made our subject an excellent wife and has had much to do in bringing about his present prosperity. They have had nine children, of whom eight are living: Johanna, Ann (Mrs. Powers), Winnofred (Mrs. Pearl), Edward, James, Mary, Martin and Catherine.
Mr. Toohill is a man of excellent habits and is very much respected by the entire community. He is a fine example of our self-made men, as he began life with no other capital than brain and muscle, and has achieved a remarkable success. He is a shrewd man of business, is energetic and enterprising, and stands well in financial circles. He is one of our most valued civic officials and is serving his second term as Supervisor, in which responsible position he is acting with true public spirit and with conscientious fidelity, doing all in his power to advance the interests of his township and county.He is one of the most intelligent supporters of the Republican Party in this locality, is a strong believer in the principles of protection and is an advocate of the McKinley bill. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church at Wapella, and are generous in contributing to its support.
SAMUEL TREGO Page 891
Samuel Trego is numbered among the prosperous agriculturists and landowners of DeWitt County, owning five hundred and fifty acres of well-improved farm lands and the necessary machinery and stock. The Property is divided into three farms, the one occupied by Mr. Trego being on section 19, DeWitt Township, not far from the town of the same name.Here, in addition to the ordinary work of the tillers of the soil, the owner has for years been engaged in breeding Short-horn cattle.
Mr. Trego came hither from Fayette County, Ohio, in October, 1859, and has pursued a course of steady industry and well-directed effort, as his financial standing attests.He was born in Pickaway County, December 7, 1827, and reared to the pursuit of a farmer. After reaching years of maturity, he was married in Fayette County, to Miss Mary Parker, who was born and reared there, her natal day being October 20, 1832. She is a bright, intelligent woman, having a large circle of friends and an excellent reputation as a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. She has been a true helpmate to her husband, looking carefully after the ways of her household and giving him wise counsel in the affairs of life. They have been blest by the birth of two children, a son and a daughter, named respectively Nathan and Maggie. The elder child is a successful farmer in the same township as his parents.He married Sarah Williams, who died some years since, leaving one child, Permelia, who has been cared for by her grandmother, Mrs. Trego, ever since the death of her mother.The widower subsequently married Viola Richter, who was born, reared and educated in DeWitt Township and county, and who has become the mother of a daughter, Edna. The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Trego is now the wife of Samuel Lafferty, whose biography occupies a page in this volume.
The father of our subject was James Trego, a native of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent. When quite young he went to Virginia where he married, later removing to Ross County, Ohio, where his wife died.She left five children.Mr. Trego subsequently married Rebecca Roalston, a native of the county in which he was then living, and after the birth of one child they removed to Pickaway County.There two children were born to them, one being the subject of this biographical notice.The father died in 1830, when not yet fifty years of age.The widowed mother of our subject married Daniel Stinson, a native of Ohio, and after living some years in Ross County, removed to Fayette County, where she died at the age of forty-six years. Mr. Stinson afterward removed to Washington County, Iowa, and resided there until his death, when about threescore years old. Benjamin Roalston, grandfather of our subject, was a Revolutionary soldier and James Trego fought through the War of 1812. The parents of Mrs. Trego were Nathan and Martha (Turner) Parker, natives of Virginia and Kentucky respectively, who were wedded in Fayette County, Ohio, and made that their home for many years.There Mrs. Parker died when about forty-five years old. The bereaved husband afterward came to this State and bought the land now owned by our subject. After living here some six years he breathed his last, being then about sixty-three years old. He was a successful financier and well known in this vicinity as a dealer in livestock.
Following the example and teachings of his father and grandfather, Mr. Trego gives his adherence to the Democratic Party. He is a law-abiding citizen, and one who in social life is friendly and obliging, while in his home he is considerate and shows that he appreciates the good qualities of his companion. He receives a merited degree of respect from those with whom he associates and his reputation is in accord with his deserts.
JACOB TROWBRIDGE Page 442
Jacob Trowbridge is classed among the farmers and stock-growers of DeWitt County, who have a thorough understanding of their calling and have made a success of it. His farm in Tunbridge Township gives every evidence of careful and thrifty management and is a valuable piece of property. A native of Warren County, Ohio, our subject was born July 15, 1826. Abraham L. Trowbridge, his father, was a native of New Jersey, but he was reared in Pennsylvania, where he learned the trade of a millwright. He marred Rachel Wampaul, who was born and reared in the place of her nativity in Pennsylvania. Her parents were natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Trowbridge were married near Harrisburg and they became the parents of twelve children, of whom two died in infancy, while six sons and four daughters grew to maturity, namely: Josiah, John, Alexander, Jacob, Amos E., Abraham B., Susan, Rebecca, Clarissa and Mary C.
The gentleman to whom these notes refer is the fourth son in this family of children. His early life was passed in his native county, and his first school days were at the district school in the town where he was reared. He came to DeWitt County in 1856, his parents having come in 1854. He remained an inmate of the parental household till he was twenty-one years old and then began life on his own account. The family after coming to this county located in Tunbridge Township, one mile east of Kenney, where the father rented a place for awhile. He afterward bought a farm on section 20, and busily engaged in its development, placing the land under tillage and erecting suitable buildings. He finally sold his farm when the infirmities of old age began to creep upon him, and then lived for a time with our subject. His last days were passed with his daughter, Mrs. J. A. Kirby, of whom a sketch will be found in this Album.
Our subject in early life worked out by the month on a farm until he has earned money enough to become more independent. He then rented land and farmed on that till his marriage. This important event in his life took place in April, 1852, when he was married to Mary Gustin in Ohio. She was a native of Warren County, that State, and after a brief but happy wedded life died in 1859 and now lies sleeping her last sleep in the county where she was born.
On September 9, 1865, our subject was the second time married, the lady of his choice being Mrs. Lydia A. (Stout) Wallace. By their union there have been born five children. Those living are Seymour and Margaret Ann. Mary B., Ora and an infant unnamed died in infancy. By her first marriage with Mr. Wallace she had five children--William C., Laura E., Ada, Josephine and Charles C.; of these two are living. Our subject by his first marriage had three children--Alice J., James A. and Madison Fillmore, the last-named being deceased.
After he married Mr. Trowbridge came to Illinois, but returned to Ohio in the same year. After his wife's death he came back to Illinois and made several trips between the two States. He finally came to Tunbridge Township to settle permanently and has here a beautiful farm of one hundred and seventy-six acres, which is mostly under excellent cultivation, and which he devotes to a successful general farming business. He is especially interested in raising stock and has one hundred and seventy hogs in fine condition, thirty-four sleep, well-kept cattle, and fifteen horses, besides an interest in two valuable stallions at Kenney that cost over $2,000.
Mr. Trowbridge has a well-balanced mind, and energetic and pushing disposition and shrewdness and foresight are also among his characteristics. He cast his first vote for a Whig candidate, but is now an uncompromising Democrat. He has served as a Commissioner and School Director, making a capable and intelligent civic official, who looked well after the interests of his adopted Township. He is an active member of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association.
CAPT. JAMES R. TURNER Page 822
Capt. James R. Turner, who is engaged in the business of a plasterer and brick-layer in Tunbridge, is an honored and well-known citizen of DeWitt County.He is a veteran of the late Civil War in which he did noble service that helped to raise the high reputation of his regiment as one of the most gallant of the Illinois troops.He has mingled much in the public life of his community in positions of trust and responsibility and is held in high respect by his fellow-citizens.
Mr. Turner is a Pennsylvanian by birth.He was born in Juniata County, October 22, 1822, and is a son of William Turner who was also born and reared in Pennsylvania.The paternal grandfather of our subject was a native of Virginia and his maternal grandfather, whose name was Burns was of Scotch birth.The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Jane E. Magill, was born in Mifflin County, Pa., of Scotch parents and was there reared.She was married to the father of our subject in Lewistown, Pa., and there they began their wedded life.Mr. Turner was a blacksmith and he subsequently removed from Lewistown to McCollisterville, where he turned his attention to the mercantile business.Afterward he took up his residence in Mifflin County and was engaged in the hotel business.We next hear of him in Montgomery County, Ohio, where he was engaged in farming.His last years were spent at Cincinnati where he died in 1842.His wife had died some ten years before in Juniata County, Pa.They were the parents of ten children, three sons and seven daughters, of whom two died in infancy.The names of the others are Sarah, Mary B., Eliza, Ellen, Charles, James R., Margaret A. and William L.
Mr. Turner was the eighth child and the second son born into the parental household and he was about ten years old when he went with his parents to Salem, Ohio.He went to school there and assisted his father at home until he was about sixteen years old.At that age he went with his uncle, Hugh Burns, to White County, Ind., and in 1841 he started in life for himself leaving Monticello, the Indiana town where he had been living, and locating in Decatur, Macon County, Ill.
During his residence there in the year 1846, our subject enlisted in Company C, Fourth Illinois Infantry, which was commanded by Col. E. B. Baker.He was present at the siege of Vera Cruz and Cerro Gordo and fought the Mexicans with great ardor.He was mustered out at New Orleans and was paid for his services.After returning from his exciting life as a soldier in Mexico, our subject settled quietly at Clear Lake, Sangamon County, and worked at his trade there until he returned to Decatur where he continued to follow his trade for some time.
April 13, 1857, our subject took an important step in life whereby he gained the devoted assistance of a good wife in the person of Rachael J. Hutchin.She is a native of Butler County, Ohio, where she was born in 1831.She was but nine years old when she came to DeWitt County with her parents, Thomas and Sarah Hutchin.Mr. and Mrs. Turner have eight children, five sons and three daughters, as follows:Laura May, wife of Scot Nearing of Kenney; Sallie A., wife of Dr. William Craig, of the same place; Mansford E. who is married and resides in Kenney where he owns and manages a hotel; Charles L. is at home with his parents; Josephine who is the wife of Warren Howard, of Kenney; William T. and John W. who are at home.
In 1862 Mr. Turner came to DeWitt County from Decatur and located on a farm on section 16, Tunbridge Township.He watched with intense interest the progress of the great civil conflict that was then raging and as soon as he could arrange his affairs offered his services to his country, enlisting August 9, 1862.He raised a company of soldier’s which was composed of one hundred and thirty-two men and was the largest company that was taken to Camp Butler.It was mustered into service as Company B, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry and won a fine military record.Mr. Turner was made Captain of his company and proved to possess fine qualities as a leader.He took part in several important battles and at Kenesaw Mountain while in the fiercest of the fight he was seriously wounded.He was taken first to the hospital at Knoxville where he remained about six weeks and was then discharged in that city October 14, 1864.
After his experience of the hardships of military life our subject returned to his home at Decatur where he had removed his family and remained there until February, 1869, when he came back to DeWitt.He has ever since been engaged as a plasterer and bricklayer and has accumulated a comfortable competency.Capt. Turner has been of great assistance in the management of public affairs as Supervisor, representing Tunbridge Township on the County Board for six years.He was a member of the Board of Village Trustees two years and acted as chairman of that honorable body.Socially he is an odd Fellow and politically a Democrat.He is a man of sterling common sense, of clear judgment and is broad and independent in his views.He has a high reputation as a man of unswerving integrity, who does as he would be done by and is looked up to as one of our most valuable citizens.
SANFORD TURNIPSEED Page 665
It being the purpose of the authors of this work to preserve for the benefit of posterity a record of the lives of honest and industrious citizens, they would fail in their purpose if they omitted that of S.R. Turnipseed, a successful farmer and stock-raiser of DeWitt County. This gentleman is now the occupant of a pleasant home on section 19, DeWitt Township, where he owns one hundred and ten acres of as fine land as is to be found in this vicinity. The tract is well located and bears the improvements usually made by a man who desires to keep up with the times and surround himself with the comforts and conveniences of modern farm life.
The father of our subject was William Turnipseed, a native of the Buckeye State, wherein he grew to maturity and embarked in the occupation of a farmer. In Fayette County he married Nancy A. Carder who, like himself, was born and reared in Ohio. After the birth of three children, one of whom was our subject, whose natal day was April 14, 1847, the parents removed to Washington County, Iowa, which was at that time an undeveloped section. They settled on a wild prairie farm which by degrees was brought under cultivation and made to yield abundantly of fruits necessary for man's use. There the father died in 1871, when about fifty years old. In politics he was an old-time Democrat. He was numbered among the hard-working and energetic members of the community and one whose private character was moral and upright. His widow is still living, now making her home with her children in that county. Although nearly three-score and ten years of age she retains her bodily vigor in an unusual degree. She is a woman of sincere piety, belonging to the United Brethren Church, and has many friends who have been won by her own loving spirit.
The gentleman whose life history is the subject of these paragraphs was but an infant when his parents removed to Iowa and there he grew to man's estate. He came to DeWitt County, Ill., in the fall of 1873 without means, but imbued with an earnest determination to make for himself a home and be successful in the better sense of living an honest life. For some time he made his home in Harp Township, but came to DeWitt Township in 1887. Honest and persistent effort was crowned with success and he was able to purchase a fine farm and to-day ranks among the prosperous men of this locality. In politics he is a sound Democrat. He takes a prominent part in the various movements which are for the public good and has a reputation second to none for thoroughly good citizenship.
In the township which he in now living Mr. Turnipseed was married to Miss Cordelia Zartman, who was born here December 3, 1847. She is a woman of intelligence, undoubted capability in the management of household affairs, and is devoted to the interests of her husband and children. She belongs to the Presbyterian Church and earnestly endeavors to live in a manner becoming her profession of faith. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Turnipseed has been gladdened by the presence of four children, named respectively, William H., Ella Myrtie, Charles E. and Minnie M.
CICERO TWIST Page 889
Cicero Twist.This respected pioneer of DeWitt County is said to be the oldest settler in Nixon Township.He has a large and valuable farm on section 8, and has been associated with the industrial interests of this section of the country as a farmer and a blacksmith for many years.On the opposite page we present his portrait to our readers and give in this connection the main events in his life.
Mr. Twist was born at Seneca Falls, N. Y., December 6, 1819.John Twist, his father, was also a native of the Empire State, and was there reared to the life of a farmer and also became a wagon maker.He was married to Phoebe Russell, a native of the State, and they made their location on a farm.Our subject’s grandfather on his mother’s side was Thaddeus Russell, and he is supposed to have been born in New York, where he was a farmer during his active life.The parents of our subject were among the early pioneers of Sangamon County, coming to that part of Illinois in the year 1830, making the journey partly by a flatboat down the Ohio River and the rest of the way by team.They located in a wild country four miles southeast of Springfield on Sugar Creek, where there were plenty of deer and all kinds of wild game.
Mr. Twist first built a log house and then busily entered upon the pioneer work of developing a farm.His land was finely situated between the two forks of the Sangamon River, and he utilized the fine water power by building a mill on the north fork in which he manufactured lumber and ground corn.His busy career was brought to a close by his death in 1841, while yet in the prime of manhood.His widow subsequently married James Stewart and went with him to his farm, but a year later she returned to her former home, leaving her husband, and died on the old homestead.By her second marriage she had one daughter, Emeline, who lives in Florida.Five children were born to her and the father of our subject, four sons and one daughter, namely: Thaddeus (deceased), Cicero, Joanna; Milo and John A. deceased.
Cicero Twist was the second son of the family, and was but a year old when his parents brought him from his native State to Sangamon County, Ill.His first schooling was obtained in a log schoolhouse four miles southeast of Springfield.At the age of eighteen years he went out to work by the day and month, and also engaged in hunting and trapping on the Green and Rock Rivers.He early learned the trade of blacksmith in Sangamon County and has followed that business ever since.In 1818 he took an important step in life which has undoubtedly had much to do with his prosperity, as he then came to DeWitt County and cast in his lot with its pioneers.He located where he now resides on section 8,Nixon Township, and while superintending the improvement of his land carried on an extensive business as a blacksmith, being patronized by the people for many miles around, and soon winning a high reputation as a skillful mechanic.His land was a mere tract of wild prairie when he located on it, and he had to build a little log house, 12 x 12 feet in dimensions, as a shelter.He now has four hundred and fifty-two acres of choice land, from the rental of which he derives an excellent income, and is now taking life somewhat easier than in days of yore, as by former untiring efforts he has accumulated a comfortable competency.
Mr. Twist was first married May 21, 1845, to Sarah Ann Barickman, a native of Indiana.Their married life was brought to a close after twenty-two years, by the death of Mrs. Twist January 10, 1867.There were ten children born of that marriage, six daughters and four sons, whose names are Novilla A., Louisa, Milo, Evan A., Mary E., Sarah P., Cicero, Wesley W., Effie A., and Joanna.The second marriage of our subject, which was contracted November 3, 1867, was with Sarah Enos, who was a native of Ohio.They lived together nearly eleven years, and then our subject’s household was again invaded by death, and a second time he was deprived of a wife, Mrs. Twist dying July 16, 1878.
Our subject is regarded as a useful and trustworthy citizen.By a life of frugality, industry and keen business capacity he has not only become prosperous himself, but has contributed to the prosperity of his adopted township.He is one of the stanch supporters of the Democratic party, and has held the offices of School Trustee and School Director with good results to the educational advancement of the community.
JOHN H. TYLER, M.D. Page 571
The profession of medicine is one that calls for keenness of judgment and accuracy of knowledge, together with an almost instinctive appreciation of effects differing in quality from that needed in any other calling. To say that a man is a successful physician is therefore high praise, although it may be no more than the person referred to merits. Dr. Tyler, of Clinton, is a potent factor in the medical affairs of DeWitt County, where for many years he has been conducting a good practice and taking a prominent part in society matters connected with the profession.
The paternal grandfather of our subject, Nathan Tyler, was of Irish extraction. The father, Timothy Tyler, was born in Maine, pursued the occupation of a farmer and fought during the War of 1812. He died when the son of whom we write was a mere child. His wife was Elizabeth Taylor, daughter of Capt. Samuel Taylor, a seafaring man who was a native of Massachusetts. She was born at Cape Cod, and died in 1851 at the age of sixty-seven years. She and her husband had removed to Mansfield, Ohio, soon after their marriage and there she passed the later years of her life. In that town, August 24, 1827, the child was born whose life history it is our purpose to outline.
The fundamental education of Dr. Tyler was obtained in the common schools, after which he took up the course of study in the Mansfield Academy. On completing it he engaged in teaching as a temporary expedient, continuing to act as a pedagogue twenty-seven months. At the expiration of that period he began the study of medicine with Dr. J. W. Griffith in Perrysville, a small town in Ashland County. He took his first course of lectures at Starling Medical College in Columbus and then engaged in the active duties of the profession in Perrysville. In 1855 he determined to seek a location farther westward and coming to this State selected the village of DeWitt as his future home. He practiced there until 1856 and in the meantime continued his private study and investigation. In the winter of 1856-57 he entered Rush Medical College in Chicago and was graduated there-from in February. Returning to DeWitt he resumed his practice, continuing his labors with unremitting zeal until 1874, when he was called upon to fill an important public position.
Dr. Tyler was nominated on the Republican ticket to represent the Twenty-ninth Senatorial District, then composed of DeWitt and Macon Counties, in the Legislature. Obeying the wish of the people he served during the Twenty-ninth and Thirty-first sessions, and with his customary zeal in whatever he undertook, was active in his endeavors to advance the interest of his constituents. He took part in the debate regarding the so-called "cut-throat" mortgages, and lowered the rate of interest. On retiring from the Legislature the Doctor resumed his practice at DeWitt, but in 1888 removed to Clinton, where he is known and honored as a successful and prosperous practitioner.
Dr. Tyler was fortunate in winning for his wife a lady of rare intelligence and strength of mind and character. This lady bore the maiden name of Harriet Cain, being a daughter of Charles S. Cain, Esq., a highly respected citizen of DeWitt County, and formerly of Perry County, Ohio, where the daughter was born. The marriage rites of Doctor and Mr. Tyler were solemnized March 27, 1861, and the happy union has been blest to them by the birth of three children. The second child, Charlie, died in 1875, when six years old. The youngest, Alice Cary, is pursuing her studies in the schools of Clinton.
The eldest child, Dr. Aldora J. Tyler, evinced a decided taste for the profession of medicine and was given every opportunity to perfect herself therein. She was graduated from the woman's Medical College of Chicago, after which she spent fourteen months at the Woman's Hospital in order to acquire a thorough knowledge of surgery. Returning to her home she entered the office with her father and has secured a practice of which she has great reason to be proud. She served one year as President of the DeWitt County Medical Society, demonstrating the ability of woman to preside over a parliamentary body and direct the discussions and actions of such an association. She is regarded by her many friends as a young lady of unusual ability and much is expected of her in the future.
Dr. Tyler is a member of the American Medical Association and of the DeWitt County Medical Society and has held the position of President of the latter. He belongs to Amon Lodge, No. 261, F. & A.M., Goodbrake Chapter No. 1, R.A.M., and is also a member of the Council. His mental attainments, professional skill and personal character alike make him a conspicuous figure in the society of Clinton. Mrs. Tyler is intimately connected with the various elevating movements going on in this part of the State. She is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, taking a prominent part in Sunday-school and Missionary work; has been President of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union seven years, during which time she has been a delegate to district and State conventions. Besides her stanch support of prohibition and Christianity, Mrs. Tyler is earnest in her advocacy of woman suffrage.
JACKSON VANCE Page 220
Among the young men who are gaining a maintenance by tilling the soil in DeWitt County and who are securing an honorable position among the members of their class is Jackson Vance, whose home is on section 14, Rutledge Township. He has lived here some ten years and has his farm under good improvement, so that it forms a comfortable home and is the source of a satisfactory income. It consists of one hundred and twenty acres under tillage and eight acres of timber land.
Mr. Vance was born in McLean County, June 5, 1858, and lived with his parents--Wilson and Mary (Harper) Vance, until he became of age. His parents were born in Pendleton County, W.Va., and their parents in turn were natives of the Old Dominion. The father is of remote Irish ancestry. In 1850, some years after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Vance came to Illinois, finally locating on a farm in Empire Township, McLean County, where they now own two hundred acres of highly improved land. Mr. Vance has held some of the local offices and is a Democrat in politics. Mrs. Vance is a consistent member of the United Brethren Church. Each has passed more than sixty-five of the milestones on the journey of life, but they are still hale and hearty.
After arriving at years of discretion Jackson Vance won for his wife Miss Mary J. Turner, who was born in the township in which she is now living, April 28, 1859. She was reared and educated here and is a capable manager and Christian woman. Her father, Dennis Turner, who is numbered among the early settlers of his section of country was born and reared in Ohio, but came hither prior to his marriage. His first wife, mother of Mrs. Vance, died when forty years of age and he subsequently married a second time. He and his second companion are still living in the township.
Mr. and Mrs. Vance are the happy parents of two children, daughters, upon whom the names of Lulu A. and Nellie M. have been bestowed. Mr. Vance is a man of intelligence, not only in the line of his farm work, but regarding topics of general interest, and is a reliable and law-abiding citizen. Being firmly convinced that the principles of Democracy are wisest, he supports them by his ballot. He and his wife belong to the United Brethren Church and enjoy the respect of their neighbors and fellow-citizens.
WILLIAM W. VAN EMAN Page 808
Among those to whom tilling the soil has proved a remunerative occupation, enabling them to retire from active labors and spend their declining years in the enjoyment of peace and plenty, is Mr. Van Eman, now a resident of Farmer City, DeWitt County. He owns a tract of land four and a half acres in extent, partly within the city limits, and here in a cozy and comfortable dwelling he is enjoying the companionship of wife and children and the many friends whom he has made since he came to this part of the Mississippi Valley.
Before giving a brief outline of the life of our subject it may be well to mention a few facts regarding his progenitors. He is of German or Dutch lineage, and Pennsylvania was the home of the Van Emans for several generations. Grandfather Van Eman, whose given name was Andrew, was born in the eastern part of the Keystone State and grew up with an understanding of the occupations of a farmer and miller. He married Miss Elizabeth Riddile, and soon after the Revolutionary War located in Washington County, which was then new and sparsely settled. Their home was established on Pigeon Creek, in what is now Somerset Township, and they began the pioneer life, living to see the country around them placed under cultivation and improvement. Mr. Van Eman built a mill on Chartier’s Creek, one of the first established in the county, and its site is still used for milling purposes. The owner improved a good farm and with his wife aided in building up the Presbyterian Church in their neighborhood, both being devout members. They lived to an advanced age, passing the three-score years and ten.
The worthy couple above mentioned had a large family of whom William, the father of our subject, was the eldest son. He was born and reared in Washington County, and with the exception of seven years spent in Wayne County, Ohio, his active life was passed in his native State. He however, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Wallace, in Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1872, being then eighty-three years of age. He was preceded to the silent land by his wife who, after sharing his joys and sorrows for more than fifty years, died in Ohio about seven months before his decease. She had borne the maiden name of Sarah Logan and was a native of the same county as her husband. Both belonged to the Presbyterian Church and their children were reared under religious influences. Mr. Van Eman was a Whig and later a Republican in politics.
The maternal grandparents of our subject were Samuel and Rebecca (Walker) Logan, for many years residents of Washington County, Pa., in which Mrs. Logan was probably born. Mr. Logan was a native of the Emerald Isle, whence he came to America when eighteen years old, this being a short time before the Revolutionary War. When hostilities began he joined the Colonial forces and served as a private under Gen. Washington until the independence of the Colonies was assured. He then married and established himself on a farm, where he spent long years of usefulness. He survived his first wife and married a second time. He was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church and for years was Elder in the society which was under the pastoral care of Dr. McMillan, the well-known founder of Jefferson (Pa.) College.
Our subject is the eighth in order of birth of the eleven children born to William and Sarah Van Eman. Of this large family three survive. He of whom we write opened his eyes to the light in Washington County, Pa., October 15, 1824, grew to manhood in his native county and from his boyhood turned his attention to farming and teaching. He continued to reside in his native State until 1880, when he came to Illinois, buying property in Santa Ana Township, DeWitt County. The tract was located on sections 17 and 21, and formed a good farm on which Mr. Van Eman was engaged in the duties of his calling until 1890. He then took up his residence in Farmer City, determined to spend the remnant of his days in quiet and enjoyment.
The marriage of William W. Van Eman and Ellazanna Newell was solemnized in the village of Cross Creek, Washington County, Pa., March 31, 1854. The bride was one of twelve children born to George and Mary (Marquis) Newell, natives of the Keystone State. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Van Eman, Thomas Marquis, was of Irish parentage, born in Opequon, near Winchester, Va. He married Miss Jane Park, who was reared in the same region as himself, a lady of great personal attractions and well qualified to discharge the duties afterward devolving upon her as a minister’s wife. In the same year this couple were married they, with a number of their friends removed to the vicinity of Cross Creek. Washington County, Pa., which was then an almost unbroken wilderness. Shortly after their arrival they were called upon to mourn the loss of a brother of Mrs. Marquis, Mr. Park, who close to their own door was tomahawked and scalped by the Indians.
Mr. Marquis was converted to Christ in Vance’s Fort, near what is now called Cross Creek Village, and at this fort his first child was baptized. He received his classical education at Cannonsburgh Academy, studied theology under Drs. Smith and McMillan, and was called to the pastorate of the Cross Creek Presbyterian Church, in which he remained for thirty-two years. The tones of his voice were exceedingly musical, hence he was often called the silver-tongued Marquis. To Mr. and Mrs. Marquis were born two sons and five daughters, among the latter being Mary, who married George Newell. Mr. and Mrs. Newell began their wedded life on a farm in Cross Creek Township, and continued to make it their home, being universally esteemed by all who knew them. Mr. Newell and his wife were devout members of the Presbyterian Church and the former was one of the ruling Elders of the Cross Creek Church; one of his sons, who died a few years ago, was a minister of the Gospel and was pastor of the Waynesville Presbyterian Church, DeWitt County. George Newell died in middle life, while his wife lived to the age of eighty-one years. Of their family five are yet living, all married. Mrs. Van Eman was reared and educated in her native township, receiving the major part of her instruction from her mother. She has borne her husband seven children, of whom William W. and Sarah B. are deceased: George N. married Mary E. White and lives on a farm in the township and county which is the home of his parents; Mary Etta and Lizzie E., both well-informed young ladies, are still with their parents, although Mary was formerly engaged in teaching; Samuel T., who is unmarried, is farming in the township; David L. is also engaged in agricultural work, making his home under the parental roof.
Our subject and his good wife hold to the faith of their fathers in religious matters, and like their progenitors endeavor to keep themselves well informed regarding the progress of humanity, and are ready at all times to do what they can to assist in the advancement of civilization. Mr. Van Eman cast his first vote for Winfield Scott, and the step from the ranks of the Whig party to that of the Republican was an easy one for him.
JAMES H. VANDEVENTER Page 193
Among those who in recent years have laid forever aside the cares of mortal life, and gone to their rest leaving behind them a good name, is James H. Vandeventer, formerly a resident of DeWitt County. He was born in this county, December 4, 1841, and after acquiring his education turned his attention to farming, to which occupation he had been reared. He was industrious and frugal, an excellent manager, and made money as a general farmer and stockman. In 1868 he settled on a tract of land on section 16, Rutledge Township, and built up a fine farm with substantial buildings and many conveniences. The estate consisted of one hundred and sixty acres, and he also owned twenty acres of timber land in another part of the township.
Mr. Vandeventer had not only won an excellent name among those who follow his own vocation, on account of his progressive ideas and general intelligence regarding its details, but he was accorded the credit of being a good financier, and a man of honor in all business relations. As a private citizen, his character and life was of sterling worth to the community, his example being such as might well be followed by younger men. His death, which occurred February 9, 1880, was not only a sore bereavement to his family, but was deeply regretted by many friends and acquaintances.
The father of our subject, Thomas Vandeventer, is now living in Leroy, McLean County, spending his declining years in the comfort that is due to his zealous and long-continued labors in an honorable walk of life. He is one of the early settlers in the county, to which he came from Virginia, and is one of the "snowbirds" who experienced the rigors of the climate in the early '30s. He is now an old man about threescore and ten, and his wife is a little older than he. She bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Arbogast, and her parents were early settlers in this county. The mutual sympathy and devotion of the aged couple is a charming sight, and their enjoyment of the worldly goods which their ample means afford, is considered but the proper result of their life work. They belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, to the support of which they contribute liberally of their means, as well as of their time and ability. They are the parents of four sons and one daughter, all living except our subject, who was the first-born.
The marriage of James H. Vandeventer and Miss Tabitha J. Lappin, was solemnized at the bride's home in Empire Township, McLean County, October 27, 1864. Mrs. Vandeventer was born in Harrison County, Ohio, September 3, 1842, and with her parents and other members of the family came to Illinois in 1851. A location was made on the farm in the township and county above mentioned, and a comfortable home was secured by hard work and prudent management. Mr. Lappin, whose given name was Samuel, died there in May, 1879, when not yet sixty years of age. His wife, Caroline (Chapman) Lappin, is still living and now makes her home with her children; she is seventy years of age. She belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is well liked by all who know her. She was born in Ohio, and so likewise was her deceased husband.
Mrs. Vandeventer, who is the eldest of the four children born to her parents, was carefully reared, and resided under the parental roof until her marriage. Since the death of her beloved companion she has had charge of the homestead, and has displayed great skill in the management of the business affairs connected therewith. She has demonstrated her financial ability and good judgment by adding to the means left by her husband, and has constantly improved and beautified the estate. She is the mother of four children, all sons, named respectively: Charles, George, Melvin and Walter. The eldest married Mary F. Beard, and occupies a farm in Down Township, McLean County, which he owns in partnership with his brother George. The two younger sons are with their mother. The entire family except the youngest son, belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have excellent standing among the citizens of the locality, in which they live.
ANDREW J. VINSON Page 407
This gentleman is perhaps as well acquainted with the growth and development of DeWitt County as any man now living. He was born here September 12, 1828, and has spent the greater part of his life here. The experiences of the early days, the primitive life, toils and hardships of the settlers, and the undeveloped state of nature are vividly recalled by him and related in an interesting way. His own life has not been devoid of toil, danger and excitement, and he has found ways in which to be of great use to his country. As a soldier, a public official, a farmer and a minister of the Gospel, he has made a record and exerted an influence that extends far beyond his own home.
The paternal grandparents of our subject were William and Lucy (Guthrie) Vinson, natives of South Carolina, and the latter a sister of Senator Guthrie, of Kentucky. Grandfather Vinson came from Kentucky to Illinois on horseback about 1818, and settled where Old Berlin now stands, west of Springfield. In the spring of 1828 he removed to Wapella Township, DeWitt County, at the head of Long Point, where he spent the remnant of his days, dying about 1836. He was a soldier in the Revolution. He and his wife belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church. Grandmother Vinson died a few months before her husband. Their family consists of four sons and four daughters, all of whom married and reared families.
The father of our subject was John Vinson, who was born in Adair County, Ky., November 4, 1796. He came to this State with his father, and in Sangamon County in 1821 was married to Nancy Scott, a native of Crawford County, Ind. In 1828 he settled in Waynesville Township, DeWitt County, where he entered forty acres of land. In 1839 he removed to Iowa, where he died in 1856, his wife having preceded him to the silent land. Both belonged to the Christian Church, and earnestly endeavored to instill into the minds of their children principles of right living. To them were born fourteen children, six of whom were reared to manhood. These were William, Andrew J., Daniel, Martin, John and James R. The father of this family served as constable in Iowa for several years.
The maternal grandparents of our subject were John and Nancy (Keith) Scott, natives of South Carolina, and the former a Revolutionary soldier. They went from their native State to Tennessee, thence to Indiana, and about 1818 came to this State on pack-horses. They established themselves in Sangamon County, but about a decade later changed their residence to DeWitt County, and spent the remainder of their lives in Waynesville Township. They reared five sons and three daughter, and four of the sons--Samuel Wilson, Andrew, James and Martin--became Christian ministers. All of the grandparents of our subject are buried in Rock Creek Cemetery. Great-grandfather Vinson was an Englishman and great-grandfather Scott an Irishman, and in their progeny distinguishing traits of both races may be noted.
Andrew J. Vinson received his schooling in the primitive structures which were so common half a century ago, and under the system then in vogue. The first schoolhouse in which he studied had neither iron nor glass used in is construction. When fourteen years old he left home to begin his personal career, coming back to this State from Iowa, where his parents were then living. He has resided in this county since that time, with the exception of six years, from 1868 to 1874, when his home was in Davis and Harrison Counties, Mo. In the spring of 1835 he located on section 14, Waynesville Township, where he owns and operates forty acres of productive land. His army life began August 9, 1862, at which time he was enrolled in Company A, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry. He was discharged December 18, 1863 from the Louisville (Ky.) Hospital, on account of injury to both eyes which unfitted him for service. The only heavy engagement in which he had taken part was the terrible battle of Perrysville, but he had demonstrated his moral and physical courage there, and in the less exciting scenes of campaign life.
In 1856 Mr. Vinson began his labors as a minister in the Christian Church at Rock Creek. He has continued to labor in the gospel field, doing his utmost to win souls to Christ, and insure the eternal happiness of all who can be brought under his influence and teaching. The good which he has been able to accomplish can only be measured at the judgment day. His Christian life extends over a long period, dating from his seventeenth year, and of him it may be said that whatever mistakes he has made, his eyes have been steadfastly set on the "prize of the high calling," and that he he has "fought a good fight." Mr. Vinson is now serving his third term as Justice of the Peace, and it is generally conceded that he carefully weighs the evidence and judiciously decides in cases brought before him. In politics he has always been a liberal Democrat.
The lady who for many years shared the joys and sorrows of Mr. Vinson, became his wife September 12, 1849. She was born in Jackson County, Tenn., March 27, 1829, and bore the maiden name of Rhoda Cisco. She has been a devoted wife and mother, has looked well to the ways of her household and made her home as pleasant as possible. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Vinson are eleven in number, and named respectively: Ruth, Sarah A., William, Nancy, Francis M., Mary, John M., Amos J., Samantha E., Samuel P. and George B. The last named died in infancy; Samantha when seven years old; and William when seventeen years of age; Ruth is the wife of John Craft; Sarah married Charles W. Jones; Nancy is the wife of A.H. Lane; Mary married R. Matson.
The parents of Mrs. Vinson, William and Sarah (Riley) Cisco, were born in Tennessee. They came to this State about 1837, making their journey in the usual way, with team, and settled in McLean County. About 1842 they came to DeWitt County, where Mr. Cisco has continued to reside with the exception of three years spent in Missouri. He is still living and is now four-score years of age. His wife passed away sixteen years ago. Their family included five sons and five daughters, all surviving except one son, who died after reaching mature years. Mr. Cisco is a son of Sanders Francisco, who was of French origin, and died in Jackson County, Tenn., at the age of one hundred and seven years.