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

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.

URIAH JAMES. (Volume 1, Page 454)

One of the oldest settlers of Texas township, DeWitt county, Illinois, and one who has seen the township developed from wild prairie land into a succession of fine farms is Uriah James, who now occupies two hundred and forty acres of rich farm land on section 30 of this township.

Uriah James was born on September 14, 1849, in Texas township, DeWitt county, and was a son of William and Susan (Belford) James.  The father was a native of Ohio and came to Illinois at an early day and he settled in DeWitt county and engaged in farming in Texas township until his death, which occurred when he was about fifty-four years of age, and our subject was eighteen years old.  He was a member of the Christian church for many years, but later joined the Baptist denomination.  In politics he was a Democrat and was a prosperous and progressive man.  The place where our subject now resides was the old homestead, where the father died and where also the mother in the spring of 1883 passed away, and both are buried in the cemetery in Texas township.  Eleven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. William James, six of whom are still living.

The subject received his education in the district schools and assisted his father on the home farm.  After the death of his father he purchased the homestead of the heirs and erected a new and large house and substantial outbuildings and has improved the land and fences until his is one of the model farms of the township.  All of the land is under cultivation and yields good crops.  Mr. James is a member of Maroa Lodge, No. 109, K. of P.

Mr. James was married to Mary E. Wilson, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of James and Amanda Wilson.  Mr. Wilson was a native of Ohio and came to Illinois during the latter part of his life and located in Mason county, where he engaged in farming, dying in Decatur, where he was leading a retired life.  The wife is still living and resides at Decatur.   The wife of our subject died in 1871 at the home place in Texas township and she left three children, all of whom are still living, namely: Lucy, who is now the wife of Charles Slauterborough of Macon county, and he is prosperous farmer and they have three boys, viz. —Anthony, Harold and Russell; Nellie, now the wife of William Cox, of Macon county, who is a farmer, and their one child died in infancy; May now resides in Clinton with her uncle, J. M. Wilcox, M. D.

Mr. James married again and his second choice was Miss Mary C. Scholby, who is a native of Mason county, Illinois, and a daughter of Kenneth and Maria Scholby.  Her parents are both living and reside in Texas township, where Mr. Scholby is engaged in farming.  To Mr. and Mrs. James have been born two children, namely: Edna and Hazel.  All of the children of Mr. James were born on the homestead in Texas township, where he, too, was born.   It is a source of much gratification to Mr. James to contrast the present condition of the township to that of his boyhood and to reflect what large part he and his family have borne in the development of the natural resources of the land until it is now one of the richest farming districts in the state.

MRS. LYDIA M. JOHNSON. (Volume 1, Page 88)

The state of Illinois owes its high standing among the sovereign commonwealths that make up the United States to the high character and dauntless spirit of her pioneers. To their inspiration and work is due her wonderful progress in agriculture, manufacturing and the arts. They transformed the wild prairie lands into beautiful homes and farms, and in the midst of the wilderness established churches and schools, laying the foundations for the grand institutions of philanthropy and learning which are the glory of the state at the present day. Among those brave and far-sighted pioneers the family to which Mrs. Johnson belongs holds a prominent place. They came to what is now DeWitt county in 1830, and were the first to locate in Farmer City, where she now makes her home.

Her father, Dennis Hurley, was born in Trenton, New Jersey, March 11, 1797, and was a son of James Hurley, who spent his last days in Illinois, where he died when a very old man, his remains being interred in Camp Ground cemetery, Santa Anna township. His wife had previously died in the east. Their children were John, Robert, Timothy, Dennis, Catherine, Sarah and Mary.

In early life, Dennis Hurley removed to Ohio, where he wedded Miss Mary M. Connell, who was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1796. Her parents, John and Margaret (Trice) Connell, were natives of Ireland and Germany, respectively, and on their emigration to America first settled in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, but later removed to the Buckeye state. Mr. Connell was killed by a falling tree just west of Newark, Ohio. He was a weaver of broadcloth and also followed school teaching. In his family were eight children, namely: Adam, John, Mathew, David, Mary, Sarah, Margaret, Elizabeth and James [that's nine]. Mr. and Mrs. Hurley had ten children who grew to man and womanhood, whose names and dates of birth were as follows: Sarah Ann, July 17, 1820; Caroline, October 28, 1821; Lydia M., September 29, 1822; Jeremiah, April 17, 1825; John, September 22, 1826; Adeline, December 26, 1828; Mary Jane and Lewis, twins, February 4, 1830; Catherine, July 16, 1832; and David, December 2, 1834. Adam, the oldest, died young; a son who was fifth in order of birth, died in infancy; and Dennis and James died young.

After his marriage, Dennis Hurley made his home in Ohio for several years, but in September, 1830, started westward with a four-horse team and a new Virginia wagon, which contained his household goods and family. He was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Richard Kirby, and his family. They were many days in making the journey, arriving at what is now Bloomington, Illinois, during the second week of October. That city then contained only three log cabins, which were owned by James Allen. One was used as a blacksmith shop, one as a provision store, and in the other the family lived. There the party camped to rest, near an old Indian camp, five miles south of Bloomington. Leaving his family there, Mr. Hurley started out to look for a location. He first settled at what is now known as Hurley's Grove, in DeWitt county, where he built a split log cabin, eighteen feet square, which was afterward moved to the McKinley Hotel for an outbuilding. After spending the winter there he went to South Prairie in the spring of 1831 and located a farm, which he entered in 1833, when the first land agency was established in this section of the state. This farm is now the property of Hiram Stock. It consisted of eighty acres of prairie land and forty acres of timber. The first year Mr. Hurley broke twenty acres, set out on orchard and planted a garden. The first house he erected here served as his residence for six years, but at the end of that time, believing his pasture to be a more suitable location, he there built a hewed-log house, with a split shingle roof and puncheon floor, which was considered a fine residence for those days. There were three rooms downstairs and one up. All the cooking was done over the fireplace at one end of the kitchen. In those early days the family suffered many hardships and privations incident to life on the frontier. It was a long ways to either market or mill, but wild game of all kinds was very plentiful and furnished many a meal for the early settlers, there being deer, prairie chickens, wild turkeys, geese, ducks, etc. Mr. Hurley being a great hunter and a good shot, his family always had an abundance of venison and other wild meat. The prairie wolves, together with the gray and black wolves, were very common and caused the early settlers much annoyance. Selling his first farm, Mr. Hurley removed to what is now known as the Gillespie farm, but a few years later disposed of that place and bought a farm adjoining his old home. He continued to reside on this place until called to his final rest June 26, 1866. His wife died July 6, 1850, and thus passed away one of the oldest and most honored pioneer couples in this section of the state. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Hurley married a Mrs. Day and after her demise married Mrs. Gesford, who survived him. During the third year of their residence here they were visited by the Kickapoo and Pottawattamie Indians, who proved very friendly and seemed to appreciate any kindness shown them. That same year Mr. Hurley and his eldest daughter attended a camp meeting at Randolph Grove, and became converted, joining the Methodist Episcopal church. On his return home he established a Methodist Society in his neighborhood, consisting of his and Mr. Kirby’s families, there being but six members at the start. As soon as a school house was built in the neighborhood, he was instrumental in securing preachers to hold services there, the first being the Rev. Hall, followed by Rev. R. Clarke and Rev. P. Cummings, who preached once in four weeks. Mr. Hurley was a class leader and held meetings at his own home. He led an upright, honorable and useful life, and was held in the highest regard by all who knew him.

Mrs. Johnson, whose name introduces this sketch, was born in Newark, Ohio, September 29, 1822, and was eight years of age when she came with her parents to this county, where she grew to womanhood. On the 4th of February, 1842, she gave her hand in marriage to Elias Johnson, who was born in Jackson county, Ohio, and was a son of Silas and Elizabeth (Craig) Johnson. His father was a native of Virginia, and from that state removed to Jackson county, Ohio, and later came to Illinois, settling first in Vermilion county, and later in Rutledge township, DeWitt county, taking up land on the north fork of Salt creek, where he made his home for many years. He died at a good old age and his wife was eighty-six at the time of her death, their remains being interred in the North Fork burying ground. In their family were eight children, namely: Thomas, John, Elias, Presley, Lucinda, Nancy, Elizabeth and Ellen.

Elias Johnson acquired his education in an old log school house so common during his boyhood. In 1837 he came with the family to DeWitt county and began his business career as a farmer by purchasing forty acres of land in Santa Anna township and entering a tract of similar size. Ill health preventing him from engaging in agricultural pursuits, he subsequently traded his farm for mill property on Salt creek, which he operated nine months. In 1857 he removed to Farmer City and devoted the rest of his life to loaning money. He was one of the best financiers in his part of the county, and although he gave liberally to charitable enterprises, he met with success in business affairs and amassed quite a fortune. He built the residence now occupied by his widow, and also the J. W. Singer home, and owned other property in Farmer City.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were born two children, namely: (1) Mary Elizabeth is the wife of John McDonald and has two children, Zua, who married J. R. Boyington and has one child, Irene; and Olive, who married Clyde Hudelson and has two children, Russell and Morris. (2) Hester Angeline first married James Brennan and after his death wedded J. Q. Jones.

On the 15th of November, 1878, Mr. Johnson was stricken with paralysis, and during his long illness his faithful wife ministered to his every want without a murmur, and attended to his business as few women can. He died June 26, 1889. In early life he was a Republican, but later affiliated with the Prohibition party, being one of the first to vote that ticket. In 1840, at the age of 12 years, he united with the Methodist Episcopal church, and was ever afterward a faithful and active member of the same. Mrs. Johnson is also an active worker in the Methodist church, and is a true and earnest Christian woman, who is loved by all who have the pleasure of her acquaintance. Although now well advanced in life, she is wonderfully well preserved, both mentally and physically, and appears much younger than she really is.

NELS P. JOHNSON. (Volume 1, Page 310)

Sweden has furnished to America many of its best and most enterprising citizens, and among those who have settled in DeWitt county is Nels P. Johnson, who now owns and operates a valuable farm in Santa Anna township, and is also successfully engaged in stock raising.  He was born in Halsenburg, Sweden, April 22, 1861, and is a son of Jen and Hannah (Pierson) Johnson, who spent their entire lives as farming people in that country.

Mr. Johnson was reared and educated in his native land.  Being possessed of a bright and active brain, and hearing glowing accounts of the advantages offered ambitious and energetic young men in the new world, he decided to try his fortune on this side of the Atlantic.  So bidding goodby to home and friends, he came to the United States in 1882 and has never had occasion to regret his emigration.  Coming to Illinois, he first worked for Mark Dunham, of Du Page county, the great horse breeder. He then went to Weldon, DeWitt county, where he was employed by the month as a farm hand for three years, during which time he saved every cent possible.  He next engaged in farming upon rented land, and then, in partnership with B. Magison, purchased one hundred and sixty acres in the Kentucky settlement.  After two years of hard and successful work he sold his interest in the place and operated a rented farm for five years.  He next bought one hundred and sixty acres of W. Gray and D. Drew, which he traded, in 1898, for the Harry Swigart farm in Santa Anna township, consisting of three hundred and seven acres.  This place was then all run down, but he rebuilt the fences, remodeled the old barn, set up a windmill, which pumps the water for his stock, and has set out all kinds of fruit, so that he now has one of the best farms in this part of the county.  He raises a high grade of horses and cattle, including some thoroughbred stock, and in all his undertakings is meeting with well deserved success.

Mr. Johnson married Miss Etta Hatfield.  Her father, Thomas Hatfield, was born in Lancaster, England, May 21, 1848, and in 1861 came to America with his parents, Peter and Mary Ann (Combs) Hatfield, the family locating on a farm in Champaign county, Illinois.  In England Peter Hatfield followed the weaver’s trade and became superintendent of a large manufactory, but here he engaged in farming.  During the Civil war he left home to go to the front and was never heard from again.  His wife died when about forty-three years of age and most of their nine children died young.  Thomas Hatfield grew to manhood upon a farm and married Miss Barbara C. Prough, a daughter of Jacob and Nancy (Cresinger) Prough.  Throughout his active business life he has followed agricultural pursuits and is now superintending the beautiful farm of E. Helmick in Rutledge township, having come to this county in 1898.  In his family were twelve children: Minnie, deceased; Clinton; Laura; Etta; Eugene; Belle; Bert; Ollie, deceased; Nellie; Nora; Mamie and Leatha.

Religiously Mr. Johnson is a member of the Lutheran church, and fraternally is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Rathbone Sisters.  His political support is always given the men and measures of the Republican party.  He is one of the self-made men of the county and deserves great credit for the success he has achieved, as he came to this country empty handed, and he has had to make his way in the world entirely unaided.

WILLIAM W. JOHNSTON.  (Volume 1, Page 385)

One of the early and highly respected citizens of DeWitt county residing at the village of Kenney is W. W. Johnston, who was born in Madison county, Ohio, on June 13, 1847, and came to Illinois in 1852 with his parents, John and Mary (McClimans) Johnston.  The father was also a native of Madison county, Oho, and was a farmer by occupation.  When about forty-eight years of age he came to Illinois and located in Wilson township, DeWitt county, where he rented a farm and cultivated it until the spring of 1867, when he moved with his family to Tunbridge township and engaged in farming on sections 9, 15 and 16.  Here he resided until his death, which occurred on the home farm in 1865.  He never aspired to public office and was a Democrat in politics and a very public-spirited man.  His widow survived him until 1898, when she died in Kenney at the home of our subject.  She was a member of the Methodist church and has been since childhood.  She is buried in Kenney.  These parents had five children, two of whom died in infancy.  The living are as follows: Isaac, who makes his home with our subject, having retired from active life, and held some of the township offices, among which was that of constable; William, our subject; Nancy Margaret, who married George E. Mitchell, a minister of the Christian church of Olney, Richland county, Illinois.  The deceased children were James and Mary.

William W. Johnston, our subject, remained on the home farm until he attained maturity, associated with his father in farming, and continued to manage the farm a few years after his father’s death.  His early education was obtained in the common schools of the neighborhood and of Tunbridge.  In 1868 he left the home farm, which was situated on part of the present site of the town of Kenney, which he helped to survey and lay out.  After leaving the farm Mr. Johnston became a clerk in a large mercantile establishment in Kenney and in 1876 he engaged in business for himself in partnership with Robert Orr under the firm style of Orr & Johnston, and they conducted a general store.  This partnership existed for twenty-two years without change.  In 1898 Messrs. Orr and Johnston disposed of their business and for two years Mr. Johnston engaged in a general collection and real estate business and was justice of the peace, which office he still holds.  He opened a blacksmith shop on the site of his old store building in 1899, but he does not give his personal attention to this business, although he gives it a general oversight.  At the present time he is one of the aldermen of the village.  He was one of the first members of the board of trustees of the village and has been holding that office almost continuously since, and has been president of the town board for the past two years.  He has held every official position in the township with the exception of supervisor and many of them for more than one term.  Mr. Johnston is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Henderson Lodge, No. 8202; Modern Woodmen of America, Camp No. 420; Court of Honor; and the Farmers’ Federation.  He has been secretary of the Masonic Lodge of Kenney since its organization.  He has also held office in the Modern Woodmen of America since the organization of the camp at Kenney.  Mr. Johnston is also a consistent member of the Christian church, which his family also attend.

In 1874 Mr. Johnston was married in Springfield, Illinois, to Addie B. Turley, who was a native of Sangamon county and a daughter of James and Mary B. (Kenney) Turley.  Mr. Turley was a native of Kentucky and coming to Illinois at an early day, the greater part of his life was spent in Sangamon county.  He moved to Kenney, where he died about 1866, after a few years’ residence.  By occupation he was a farmer.  The mother to Mrs. Johnston is still living and resides with our subject part of the time and the remainder of her time makes her home with her daughter in Sangamon county.  The uncle of Mrs. Johnston, Moses Kenney, resided at Kenney for a great many years and was one of the early settlers.  He helped to lay out the town and it was named after him, although he lived but a short time after that honor was conferred upon him.

To Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were born ten children, all of whom are still living, namely: Sylvia May, now the wife of W. L. Watson, of Macon county, four miles south of Kenney, and has one child, Clifford; Lusa Myrtle, who resides at home; William H., who resides at home and is engaged with a railroad; Robert Melvin, who is at home and is a blacksmith by trade, having charge of his father’s shop; Olo Imo, who is at home; Edna K., in school; Grover C. and Frances Folsom, twins; Lolo, who is at home; Raymond T., who is at home.

When Mr. Johnston first came to Tunbridge township, DeWitt county was nearly all wild land.  He has seen the county changed from its wild state into the rich farm land it is today and has been one of the men who have helped make it what it is.  He has always taken a great deal of interest in the improvement of the village and especially in educational matters, and he has been a member of the school board for a great many years and was clerk of the board when the school building was erected.  He considers the schools of this township sufficiently thorough to give his children a good, thorough, common school training.  He has always been a progressive man, public-spirited, and is held in the highest esteem by all his fellow citizens.

Note: According to their tombstone in Tunbridge Cemetery, William’s father died in 1868 and his mother in 1896.

CYRUS JONES.  (Volume 1, Page 261)

Cyrus Jones, who is now serving as county coroner of DeWitt county, and one of the highly esteemed citizens of Clinton, was born in Madison county, Ohio, on the 5th of February, 1836. His father, Allen Jones, was born in Culpepper county, Virginia, in 1805, and was a son of William Jones, who was probably of Welsh descent. His ancestors settled in Virginia prior to the Revolutionary war, and the records show that several of the family participated in that struggle. The grandfather of our subject followed farming throughout life and died at an advanced age. His children were Mason, William, Allen, Charles, Mrs. Betsy Rosbery, Mrs. Lydia Bates, Mrs. Sarah Jones, Mrs. South and Mrs. Nancy Dockum.

In early life Allen Jones, the father of our subject, removed to Madison county, Ohio, where he followed the carpenter’s and wagonmaker’s trades until 1855, and then came to Clinton, Illinois. Immediately after he went to Macon county, but in the fall of 1856 returned to Clinton, where he worked at his trade until his health compelled his retirement. He bought a story-and-a-half building on the northeast corner of the square, used as the first postoffice, and after moving it he remodeled the building, converting it into a good residence, it being now owned by Charles Hanger. He served eight years as justice of the peace and was a man highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him. When a boy he was a noted flute player and won considerable praise for his playing. He also played a fife for soldiers of 1812, though quite small, a company of soldiers being camped near his father’s home. He wedded Miss Mary Dockum, who was born in 1807 and died in 1865. They were the parents of seventeen children, namely: Clarissa; Henry, deceased; Matilda, wife of William Tonguet; Thomas; Milton and David, both deceased; Cyrus, or subject; Amanda and Argus, both deceased; Charles; Lemuel D.; Samuel; Charlotte W.; Mrs. Lucretia Ludwick; Mrs. Maria Anderson; John Q.; and Emma, deceased.

During his boyhood and youth Cyrus Jones engaged in agricultural pursuits. He accompanied his parents on their removal to this county, and when the Civil war broke out he enlisted in August, 1862, as a private in Company B, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He participated in a number of engagements and remained in the service until the close of the war, being honorably discharged in July, 1865. His first battle was the noted engagement at Huff’s Ferry, during the siege of Knoxville, and he took part in all the engagements in which his company participated, being in the campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta, Nashville and Franklin. On his return to Clinton he resumed work at his trade and has built more fences in the county then any other man, his specialty being fine picket and fancy fences. He bought the Weger property, which was his home for some time, but later traded it for the Lydia Taylor place, on East Washington street, which he has remodeled and enlarged, making a very comfortable residence.

Mr. Jones married Miss Isabel Bates, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Asa Bates, who on coming to this state settled in Springfield. By this union were born seven children, as follows: (1) Edward B. died when only a year old. (2) Herbert C., an engineer on the Illinois Central Railroad, residing in Centralia, married Allie Pulsifer and they have three children, Goldie, Gale and Maud. (3) Carl, junior member of the firm of Caldwell & Jones, who have one of the largest and most popular furniture stores of Clinton, married Susie Edward and they have one child, Doris. (4) Lottie and (5) Nettie are engaged in dressmaking in Clinton. (6) Mabel, who is noted for her musical talent, was graduated in music at the Wesleyan College in 1901, and is assistant teacher in that institution. (7) Blanch is at home with her parents.

In his religious views Mr. Jones is a Methodist, and in his social relations is a member of the Grand Army Post at Clinton, of which he was a trustee for several years. Politically he has always been identified with the Republican party, and on that ticket was elected coroner of the county in 1888, in 1892 and 1900, being the present incumbent. He is widely and favorably known, and is held in high regard by his many friends.

Note: The firm, Caldwell & Jones, should be Colwell & Jones.

JACOB W. AND JOHN JONES.  (Volume 1, Page 86)

Among the leading citizens and successful agriculturists of Barnett township are numbered the Jones brothers, who reside on section 19, and have been actively identified with the farming interests of this county since the fall of 1856.  They are natives of Gibson county, Indiana, where Jacob W. was born January 25, 1821, and John, March 13, 1825.  Their father, Charles Jones, was born in Madison county, Kentucky, in 1791, and was a son of Cadwallader Jones, who was a native of North Carolina and one of the first settlers of the Blue Grass state.  For some time during his early residence in Kentucky his family had to live in the fort for protection from the Indians.  When a young man, Charles Jones left his native state and removed to Indiana, about 1812, and there he married Miss Eleanor Warrick, who was also born in Kentucky.  Her father, Captain Warrick, was killed by the Indians in the battle of Tippecanoe, on the Wabash river, in 1811.  He was one of the first settlers of Gibson county, Indiana, having located there in 1807.  There Mrs. Jones was reared, and there she continued to make her home after her marriage up to the time of her death, which occurred in 1871, at the age of about seventy-two years.  Her husband, who was a farmer by occupation, died in February, 1864, and both were laid to rest in the Owensville cemetery.  They were the parents of twelve children, eleven of whom reached mature years, and seven sons are still living.

The brothers in whom we are interested grew to manhood in Gibson county, Indiana, and their education was limited to a few months’ attendance at the subscription schools of those days.  They remained on the old homestead, engaged in farming and stock raising, until the fall of 1856, when they came to DeWitt county, Illinois, having previously purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land in Barnett township.  To the further improvement and cultivation of that place they have since devoted their energies with marked success, and as their financial resources have increased they have extended the boundaries of their farm until they now have nearly six hundred acres of rich and arable land.  They have built a large and substantial residence upon the place, good barns and other outbuildings, and have added all the accessories and conveniences usually found upon a model farm of the present day.  John Jones gives considerable attention to the raising of pure-blooded short horn cattle, and is accounted one of the most successful stock-raisers of the county.  He is one of the original stock-holders of the Waynesville Bank, and is also one of its directors.  His brother is a stock-holder of the same institution and of the State Bank of Clinton.

In October, 1856, John Jones was married in Gibson county, Indiana, to Miss Permelia Montgomery, a native of that county, as was also her father, J. W. Montgomery.  Six children bless this union, namely: Ella, wife of W. T. Marvel, a farmer of Barnett township, DeWitt county, Illinois; Warrick, Charles and Franklin, who are engaged in farming on the home place; and Martha and Mary, twins, the latter the wife of G. A. Randolph, who is engaged in the banking business in Warrensburg, Illinois.

In early life the Jones brothers affiliated with the Whig party, and J. W. cast his first vote for Henry Clay in 1844, and John voted for General Zachary Taylor in 1848, but they supported John C. Fremont in 1856, and have since been identified with the Republican party.  In business affairs they are prompt, energetic and notably reliable, and through their own well-directed efforts they have achieved excellent success, being now numbered among the well-to-do and prosperous farmers of their community.

JOHN Q. A. JONES.  (Volume 1, Page 446)

One of the most prominent citizens and successful farmers of Santa Anna township is John Quincy Adams Jones, who was born in Madison county, Ohio, February 10, 1850. His paternal grandfather was William Jones, a farmer of Culpepper county, Virginia, who attained a good old age. The children of his family, so far as known, were Allen, Mason, William, Charles, Mrs. Nancy Roseberry, Mrs. Lydia Bates, Mrs. Sarah Jones and a Mrs. South.

Allen Jones, the father of our subject, was born in Culpepper county, Virginia, in 1805, and at an early age removed to Ohio, where he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Dockum, who was born in Ohio. Little is known of her family history. In 1855 Mr. Jones came to this state and after spending one year in Macon county he took up his residence in Clinton, DeWitt county, in the fall of 1856. As a carpenter and contractor he engaged in business in that place, which at that time contained but a few hundred souls. Many of the buildings that he erected are still standing, including the old grist mill in the southwest part of the city and the Charles Hanger home. He continued in this line of business for a number of years and when he retired from active labor he was elected as justice of the peace, which position he retained for the period of eight years. In 1864, the death of his first wife occurred. She became the mother of the following children: Clarissa, Matilda, David, Cyrus, Josephine, Argus, Lemuel, Henry, Thomas, Milton, Amanda, Lucretia, Charles, Samuel, John Q. A., Maria and Emma. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Jones was again united in marriage, his second union being with Mrs. Eliza Wren. On January 1, 1887, he was called to his final rest, but his widow still survives him and makes her home in Clinton.

The subject of this sketch accompanied his parents on their removal to Clinton, and was educated in the public schools of that city. He began his business career as a farmer, and throughout life that has been his principal occupation. On November 1, 1870, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Hester A. Brennan, widow of James Brennan and a daughter of Elias and Lydia M. Johnson, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work.

In 1875 Mr. Jones removed to Piatt county, Illinois, where he operated a large farm for over eight years. He then removed to Farmer City, where for eighteen months he conducted a restaurant on the site of the present post office, but the close confinement proved injurious to his health. He next removed to Centralia, where he lived for a year and a half, and then returned to Farmer City. At this time Mrs. Jones came into possession of her portion of her father’s estate and they purchased one hundred and thirty-seven acres of land in Santa Anna township of Dr. Rogers, of Utica, Ohio, and one hundred and sixty acres of the Dick Webb farm. Since then he has remodeled the buildings and made many other improvements, so that they now have a very fine farm. During the '50’s the old house and barn that stood on the place accommodated many a weary traveler and his beast that stopped here for rest and refreshments, it being a public house. Abraham Lincoln always stopped here for his meals when on his way from Springfield to various places north and east. The house at that time was owned by James Watson and the same is still standing, being used as a store house. In 1895 Mr. Jones erected a fine new house and in 1900 erected a large barn for hay. He has set out fruit trees, and has the largest and finest maple grove in the county. He keeps a fine herd of high grade cattle, including some thoroughbred short-horns, and has twelve fine draft and road horses. Although he raises considerable grain, hay is his chief product, and he has one hundred and twenty acres of meadow land, so that he probably raises more hay than any other man in the county.

Mr. Jones was reared under the teachings of the Methodist Episcopal church, but is liberal in his religious views. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is now serving as noble grand of his lodge. In political sentiment he is a stalwart Republican, and for the past nine years he has most creditably and acceptably served as president of the board of commissioners. He has also been a member of the school board, and is one of the most progressive and public-spirited citizens of his community.

PRESTON JONES.  (Volume 1, Page 464)

Among the honored pioneers and representative citizens of DeWitt county is numbered Preston Jones, who is now living a retired life in Farmer City, enjoying a well earned rest. He was born in Tazewell, east Tennessee, November 12, 1831, and on the paternal side is of Welsh descent. The first of the family to come to America was Edward Jones, who settled in Virginia. His son, William Jones, was born in that state in 1751, and on the breaking out of the Revolutionary war espoused the cause of the patriots and enlisted under Washington in the Continental army, remaining in the service until hostilities ceased. He carried dispatches and was often entrusted with matters of great moment. It was he who conveyed the glad tidings of Cornwallis’s surrender at Yorktown to the Continental congress. In 1809 or 1810 he removed to Kentucky, but after a short time spent in that state went to Overton county, Tennessee, where he died in 1839. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Susan Clark, was born in Virginia, of French ancestry, and died in 1840. In their family were ten children, including Robert, William, John, James and Mrs. Susan Holden.

Of this family, John Jones, the father of our subject, was born in Mecklenburg county, Virginia, January 24, 1801, and was therefore quite small when he removed with his parents to Tennessee, where he grew to manhood upon a farm. In 1837, in company with his family, he came to Illinois, making the journey with a Pennsylvania covered wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen, and arriving in Rutledge township, DeWitt county, on the 28th of October, that year. He first rented a small tract of land where J. H. McCord now lives. There was a small log cabin upon this place and a few acres had been broken. After buying his pork for the winter Mr. Jones found that he had only fifteen cents remaining. He operated this farm for a year and also engaged in breaking prairie for the early settlers. He next rented the Rev. Paxton Cummings’ farm two years, and the Benjamin Newberry farm one year. Having saved some money during this time he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land, all of which was covered with timber except forty acres of prairie land, and there were no improvements upon the place, but he at once set to work to build a log house, which is still standing-one of the few landmarks of pioneer times. Mr. Jones soon cleared his land and broke the prairie, converting it into the fine farm now owned by Jacob Swigart. Prospering in farming operations, he bought more land, and at one time owned nine hundred acres of the best farming land in the county. He may truly be numbered among the self-made men, as he never received any outside aid or support, his success in life being due to his natural ability, good constitution and sound judgment in business affairs. He cast his first presidential vote for Andrew Jackson in 1824, and never failed in his allegiance to the Democratic party. Religiously both he and his wife were active members of the United Brethren church, and gave liberally to its support and the erection of the first churches in this section of the state. He was married in Tennessee in 1828 to Miss Elizabeth daughter of David and Sarah (Belcher) Fullington. She died in 1890 at the age of eighty-five years, and his death occurred September 14, 1889, when he was eighty-eight years of age. They had three children: Preston, our subject; Campbell, who died in Kansas; and Albert, who died in Texas. At one time all of the sons were engaged in farming in Santa Anna township, this county.

Preston Jones was the only child of the family on their removal to this state. Although quite small he well remembers the long and tedious journey of thirty-six days. The young people of the present day can have little conception of the discomforts of riding behind slow-going ox teams for that length of time. Our subject, however, has many pleasant recollections of the trip, especially the camping out at night. As a boy he used to greatly enjoy seeing his mother prepare a meal over the large, old-fashioned fire-place. He pursued his studies in an old log school house with its puncheon seats, where he gained a good practical education, which has been of greater benefit to him than a college training to many another man.

In early manhood Mr. Jones wedded Miss Mary Johnson, a daughter of Matthew Johnson. She was born in New Jersey, and in the spring of 1837 came with her parents to DeWitt county, Illinois, locating on land now owned by O. J. Smith. She died in 1857, at the age of thirty-three years. There were five children born of this union, namely: Lucinda and Melvina both died in infancy. Cynthia Ann married Samuel Hoover and they have five children: Preston, Charles, Clyde, Chester and Loma. Albert, a farmer of Rutledge township, this county, married Ellen Johnson, who died leaving five children. Belle completes the family.

For his second wife Mr. Jones married Miss Laura Riggs, who was born in Bloomington, Illinois, January 24, 1852, and is a daughter of Andrew J. Riggs, a farmer of McLean county, who died in Bloomington at the age of sixty-four years, his wife at the age of fifty-six. By his second marriage Mr. Jones has nine children, namely: William, an employee of the Standard Oil Company at Bloomington, married Cora Nelson and has one child, Sylvia. Bertha Maud married William Drum, a farmer of DeWitt county, and has one child, Shelley. Frank, who lives on the homestead farm, married Alice Johnson and has two children, Iris and Hope. Lottie is the wife of Lincoln Kibby, of Bloomington. John is a farmer of this county. May is at home. Ola is the wife of Roy Cook, of Bloomington. Pearl and Lance are both at home. Mr. Jones has reared his sons to habits of industry and honesty, and to-day has a family of which any parent might well be proud.

Mr. Jones bought his father’s farm in Santa Anna township, on sections 8 and 9, and has added to it until he now has five hundred and four acres, his home being on section 9. The first house built upon the place was of split logs and rudely constructed, but later a good frame residence was erected. Mr. Jones has made many other improvements, which add greatly to the value and attractive appearance of the farm. In early manhood he used to haul grain and produce to the Chicago markets, considering twenty-five bushels a good load, and after selling his wheat for seventy-five cents or a dollar per bushel, he would buy salt for one dollar per barrel, and on his return home would sell it for four dollars per barrel. It required nine or ten days to make a trip of this kind. The first boots he ever had he bought with his own money, secured by raising beans, which he sold in Chicago. He used to walk and drive his hogs to market at Pekin, Illinois. In 1859 he crossed the plains to Pike’s Peak, where he followed prospecting and mining for two years, but as a home he preferred the beautiful corn belt of Illinois.

During the dark days of the war of the Rebellion, Mr. Jones enlisted in 1862 in Company I, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was in the service until hostilities ceased. He was first made a corporal, subsequently was promoted to sergeant and still later to second lieutenant. He is now a member of the Grand Army Post at Farmer City, and is a supporter of the Democratic party. He has filled the offices of road commissioner and school director, and served as tax collector in 1900. He is liberal in his religious views and is a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1895 he retired from active labor and removed to Farmer City, purchasing two acres near the depot, where he has since made his home, enjoying a well earned rest. His home is noted for its hospitality and good cheer, and his many friends are always sure of a hearty welcome within its doors.

JOHN KILLOUGH.  (Volume 1, Page 319)

This gentleman is entitled to distinction as one of the most progressive and enterprising men of Clinton, and has for many years been prominently identified with her business and political interests.  Upon the commercial activity of a community depends its prosperity and the men who are now recognized as leading citizens are those who are at the head of paying business enterprises, such as Mr. Killough, who is the senior member of the firm of Killough & Johnson, well-known hardware merchants of Clinton.

Mr. Killough was born near Fulton House, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, December 10, 1845, and is a son of Robert and Sidney (Hoopes) Killough, who were farming people.  The father attained the age of seventy-three years, and the mother sixty-nine.  Our subject grew to manhood on the home farm, and after attending the public schools of the neighborhood for some time, he entered the State Normal School at Millersville, Pennsylvania, after which he engaged in teaching and later he spent a year and a half at a polytechnic college in Philadelphia, where he took a course in civil engineering.

Mr. Killough came west in 1868, to take up civil engineering, but for one term engaged in teaching near Delavan, Tazewell county, Illinois.  Subsequently he was with the engineering corps of the Chicago & Alton Railroad for two years and a half on construction work, and then went to Canada in the employ of what is now the Michigan Central Railroad one year.  During the following two years he was with the Hamilton & Lake Erie Railroad, headquarters at Hamilton, Ontario.  At the end of this period he determined to change his vocation, and having accumulated enough to embark in business and establish a home for himself.  Mr. Killough came to Clinton, Illinois, in 1875, having heard good reports of the progressive little city and the fine country surrounding it.  He purchased H. H. Harwood’s interest in the firm of Harwood & Merriam, hardware dealers.  Under the firm of Merriam & Killough they carried on business until 1878, when our subject purchased his partner’s interest and was then alone in business until February 1, 1901.  He bought the building which had been erected by William Clagg in 1865.  It was then eighty by twenty-two feet in dimensions.  Mr. Killough built an addition in the rear, making it one hundred and twenty-four feet deep.  He utilizes both the first and second floors, as well as the basement.  On the 20th of April, 1885, the building collapsed, water having damaged the brick foundation so that the walls fell in, crushing everything with it.  As this occurred on Sunday morning no lives were lost.  In its place Mr. Killough erected a good substantial brick building, which he now occupies.  He also rents the second floor of an adjoining building, and has built a warehouse, sixty-five by thirty feet, across the street from his store.  Besides his business property he owns a fine residence.  Buying the property of J. R. Melrvin on East Main street, he tore down the brick house standing thereon, and erected, in its place a fine two-story frame residence, which is surrounded by a large modern piazza and spacious, well-shaded grounds.  It is one of the best and most attractive homes in the city.

Mr. Killough married Miss Delia Briggs, daughter of Uriah Briggs, of Delavan, Illinois, and to them was born one child, Merna C., who was graduated in the Clinton high school in 1901.

When the Civil war broke out Mr. Killough desired to enlist, but his parents refused their consent, believing him too young to enter the service.  At length, in July, 1863, he enlisted in the State Militia for one hundred days, and in 1864 enlisted in the United States service.  He is now a prominent member and past commander of the Grand Army Post at Clinton.  In his religious views he is liberal.  His father’s people were Presbyterians, while his mother’s people were members of the Society of Friends.  Politically Mr. Killough is a stanch Republican, and has taken a very active and influential part in public affairs.  During his residence in Clinton he served four years as county surveyor; in 1882 was elected supervisor, which office he held nine consecutive years; was school director seven years; and in 1899 was elected mayor of the city.  During his administration of two years a number of very important improvements were made, including the paving of the square.  He takes an active interest in all enterprises calculated to promote the general welfare.  It is to such men that the west owes its prosperity and progress, and if Clinton had more such men she would soon rank among the finest cities of her size in the state.  Mr. Killough is a past master of the Masonic Lodge, and also a member of the chapter, commandery and Eastern Star.

WILLIAM G. KIRBY.  (Volume 1, Page 442)

William G. Kirby, now deceased, was a native of Ohio, born in Warren county, October 12, 1833, where he resided until he was twelve years of age, when he came to Illinois with his parents, and they settled near Waynesville, DeWitt county. He was a son of Robert and Phoebe (Graham) Kirby, both of whom are now deceased, the father dying in Texas and his wife in DeWitt county. They were very worthy people and resided in this county for a number of years, gaining the respect and esteem of all who knew them.

William G. Kirby remained on the home farm until grown and then married Miss Mary Ellis, by whom he had one child, who died when but nine months old, while the young mother passed away a year after marriage. In July, 1873, he purchased a fine farm of fifty-four acres on section 12, Tunbridge township, where his widow now resides, and he added to this property until at the time of his death he owned two hundred and twenty-five acres on sections 1 and 12 of Tunbridge township, only part of which was under cultivation. For a number of years Mr. Kirby was school director and also road commissioner for several terms, and he held a number of the minor offices. In religion he was a Universalist, but was not a member of any church. He was a public-spirited man and an advocate of every measure tending towards the advancement of the community.

Mr. Kirby married, March 3, 1872, Mrs. Mary Bruner, and to them were born five children, all living, as follows: Irvin N., born in May, 1874, resides in Tunbridge township, and he married Pearl Byerly, by whom he has two children, June and Verna B. James A. resides at home with his mother. Emma L. married Walter Andrews, who resides in Tunbridge township, where he is engaged in farming, and they have one child, Emmet. Eva resides in Kenney and is the wife of J. C. Todd, who is a school teacher of that place and a son of J. S. Todd, of Kenney, a retired farmer. Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Todd have one child, Vela May. Vera resides at home. All the children were born in Tunbridge township on the home place.

Mrs. Kirby was the widow of James H. Bruner, late of Texas township. He was a native of DeWitt county, Illinois, and was born in 1843. All his life he followed farming in Texas township. He enlisted in Company C, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served three years during the Civil war. After this he returned to Texas township, where he continued farming until his death, which occurred on October 2, 1869. No children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bruner. Mrs. Kirby was the daughter of John W. and Lucinda (Blair) Scott. Her father was a native of Kentucky and came to Illinois at a very early date, settling in DeWitt county, where he lived until his death, which occurred in December, 1854. To John W. Scott and wife were born nine children. The occupation of this most excellent man was that of a farmer, and when he died he left his family well provided for. Later his widow married L. B. Spencer, who was also a very early settler of Texas township, having come to Dewitt county when he was only two years of age. He was born in 1833 and died January 2, 1900, leaving his widow and three sons in good circumstances, and all of them now reside in DeWitt county.

Mrs. Kirby is a lady of great executive ability, and since the death of her husband has managed the affairs of her farm in a manner which reflects great credit upon her. She understands thoroughly every detail of farm work, and can direct her workmen as clearly and concisely as though her place had always been at the head of affairs. Some women are born to lead, and whenever circumstances require them to grasp the helm they are not found wanting in ability or knowledge. The pleasant home, surrounded with large shade trees, is none the less inviting because its mistress also decides upon the various crops in the surrounding fields and gives supervision to the farm and poultry yards as well as the dairy. The outbuildings are in good condition and the big barn gives shelter to excellent cattle and an ample number of sleek, well-fed horses. All the fences show that a master mind is at the head of affairs, and the whole farm is in the best possible shape. In her work and management Mrs. Kirby is ably assisted by her son, James A., while Miss Vera helps her in the household duties and is a young lady of taste and ability. A most charming hospitality is dispensed at the homestead of the Kirby family and relatives and friends are alike made welcome by the genial hostess.

JAMES M. KIRK.  (Volume 1, Page 173)

James M. Kirk, one of the leading and representative business men of Clinton, DeWitt county, Illinois, was born in Bellefontaine, Ohio, July 26, 1854, and is a son of Orange and Sarah (Robinson) Kirk, and a grandson of Samuel and Elizabeth ( Marshall ) Kirk.

Orange L. Kirk was a native of the Buckeye state and was born in Xenia, where, after receiving a common-school education, he learned the trade of brick masonry.  There he remained until 1856, when he came to Clinton.  Soon after his arrival in this place he began the manufacture of brick, as the proper clay for that purpose was found in the north and east part of the town.  He was first associated with A. H. C. Barber, and they established a large plant.  At that time the town of Clinton had just been laid out, with some three hundred people living within its corporate limits.   Being a new town the demand for brick was large and in their enterprise they met with excellent success.  Later Mr. Barber retired from the firm and J. W. Bell was taken into partnership.  They manufactured brick for many of the more prominent buildings of the place, among which was the old Presbyterian church and a number of the present business blocks which are now standing in the central part of the city.   In addition to his brick business he also dealt quite extensively in real estate and became one of the leading business men of Clinton.  Socially he was a member of DeWitt Lodge, No. 84, A. F. & A. M., and was also a member of the chapter and the council.

By his marriage with Miss Sarah Robinson, he became the father of two children: Samuel, who is a brick contractor of St. Louis, and James M., whose name introduces this review.  When but twenty-one years of age, September 4, 1855, Mrs. Kirk was called to her final rest and was buried in the Bellefontaine cemetery.  For his second wife Samuel [Orange L.] Kirk was united in marriage with Miss Lucretia Morlan, who survives him.  Mr. Kirk departed this life in 1897, at the age of sixty-eight years, honored and respected by all who knew him.

The common schools afforded James M. Kirk his educational advantages, and up to the time that he was twenty-one years of age he gave his father the benefit of his labors.  October 3, 1876, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma J., daughter of Eason and Alice Johnson.  Her parents came to Clinton in 1858 and purchased a tract of farming land, which they still own and operate.  He was a son of Joseph and Lydia (Cook) Johnson, who were natives of Providence, Rhode Island, where his birth also occurred August 13, 1814.  Joseph Johnson emigrated to Ohio with his family and settled.  Here he began farming and in his undertakings prospered, until at one time he had some five hundred acres of land under a high state of cultivation.  In the family were the following children: Ira C., Cylinda, Allura, Joseph, Lydia and one that died in infancy.

Eason Johnson, the father of Mrs. Kirk, was born and reared in Ohio, where he received a common-school education, the school being held in a log school house and in those early days greased paper was used for windows.  He remained in Ohio until after his marriage, which was celebrated on December 17, 1835, Miss Alice Calendar becoming his wife.  As a result of this union the following children were born: Mary, who is now deceased; Amos; Huldah; Ira; Alice, deceased, who was the wife of John C. Kirkley; Joseph E.; Allura, deceased; Lovina, also deceased; and Emma, who is the wife of the subject of this personal sketch.  In 1859 Mr. Johnson, accompanied by his family, went by water to Texas where he intended to remain, but soon after his arrival he became convinced that he would not be pleased with the country and determined to return to the north.  After a long and tiresome trip he arrived in DeWitt county in 1860 and located on section 3, Texas township, where he still resides.  Although both Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are well along in years they are active and in excellent health.  By economy and perseverance, they have accumulated a comfortable competence and today are recognized as one of the representative, families of Clinton [DeWitt] county.

To our subject and his wife have been born the following children: Marshall died at the age of two months; James Robert is associated with his father; Alice L. resides at home; Willoughby E. is a mechanic; Fred K. and Reuben W. are students.

After working some years as a journeyman the subject of this sketch began contracting on his own account and for the past twenty-four years has been actively identified with the business and commercial interests of Clinton, and is new recognized as the leading contractor and builder of DeWitt county.  Among the more prominent buildings that he has had under his personal supervision is the Register block, the remodeling and enlarging the Renick opera house, Christian church, Lincoln school building, gas plant and many others too numerous to mention.

Socially Mr. Kirk holds a prominent place.  He is a member and recorder of Clinton Commandery, No. 66, K. T., T. I. M. Clinton Council. No. 74, R. & S. M., P. H. P. Goodbrake Chapter, No. 59, R. A. M., P. M. DeWitt Lodge, No. 84, A. F. & A. M., and P. W. P. Myrtle Chapter. No. 131, O. E. S.  In politics he has never taken more than the interest that every public-spirited man should, but at all times he stands ready and willing to do all in his power to further the interests of his adopted city.  He served one year—1881-1882—as city marshal of the city of Clinton, and two years in the city council from the first ward.

ORANGE L. KIRK.  (Volume 1, Page 60)

Orange L. Kirk, deceased, was for many years one of the representative business men and prominent citizens of Clinton. He was a native of Ohio, born in Xenia, November 11, 1829, and was a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Marshall) Kirk, who were farming people. The father was a middle aged man at the time of his death, which occurred on his farm near Logansport, Indiana, but the mother was only about twenty-one years old when she died, leaving two small children; Orange L. and Angeline, who subsequently became the wife of William Duvall. The father was twice married and had children by his second union.

Our subject was reared on the home farm and when a young man learned brick manufacturing and brick building at Xenia. Later he engaged in contracting and building at Bellefontaine, Ohio. In 1854 he came to Clinton, Illinois, and was one of the pioneer contractors and builders, if not the first at this place. At that time Clinton was only a small town composed of log and frame buildings, but he lived to see it develop into a fine modern city, containing many handsome brick structures, which still stand as monuments to his architectural skill. He owned and carried on a brickyard on the outskirts of the city, and during his early residence here was connected with A. H. C. Barber in manufacturing and contract work until 1871. He was subsequently in partnership with J. W. Bell and still later with his son, James M. Kirk, who is one of the most prominent builders of the city to-day. Our subject built all of the early brick buildings on the square, including the Magill Block and Hotel, the Union and Masonic Blocks, and the old First Presbyterian church, besides many private residences throughout the city. Mr. Kirk also engaged in the manufacture of tile for a time, and when the Springfield division of the Illinois Central Railroad was being built, he received the contract to build all the culverts from Gilman to Springfield. He laid the first sewers from the Magill House east and south. The large brick residence now occupied by his widow was built by him, and he erected the houses belonging to T. K. Edmiston, P. McHenry, N. Sackett and Mrs. O'Brien. Besides the business houses already mentioned he built the Killough, M. Moran and Day blocks, and for many years was the leading brick mason and contractor of the city.

Mr. Kirk was twice married, his first wife being Miss Sarah J. Robinson, who died in 1854, leaving two children, James M., who is represented on another page of this volume; and Samuel. On the 18th of February, 1857, Mr. Kirk was united in marriage with Miss Lucretia G. Morlan, a native of London, Ohio, and a daughter of John G. and Lucretia (Gager) Morlan. The father was born in Pennsylvania, and in early life went to Ohio, from which state he came to DeWitt county, Illinois, about 1852. Here he followed his trade of wagonmaker, his first shop being located on the site of Frank Palmer’s livery stable, but the building has since been moved west and is now used as a poultry warehouse. He engaged in the manufacture of light and heavy wagons, and his work being of the best, many of his wagons are still in use. He patented the Morlan fifth wheel used on wagons to prevent the vehicle from overturning. During his early residence here he took quite an active part in public affairs and served as marshal of the city for a time. His old home is now owned by Leon Kirk, a son of our subject. Mr. Morlan died in 1892, aged eighty-three years, and his wife in 1890, aged eight-four. They were the parents of two children: Lucretia, now Mrs. Kirk; and John A., a resident of Bloomington, Illinois.

By his second marriage Mr. Kirk had the following children: (1) Thaddeus learned the brick mason’s trade with his father, but later took up the study of medicine with Dr. D. W. Edmiston, of Clinton, and was graduated at Rush Medical College, Chicago, with the degree of M. D. He then located at St. James, Minnesota, where he built up a large practice. He died very suddenly January 4, 1890. Socially he was a prominent member of the Masonic bodies. He married Annie Clinton and had one child, now deceased. (2) Angeline is the wife of James Dale, of Clinton, and they have two children living, Nora, wife of C. S. Cassidy, and Irene. Those deceased are Wilbur and James M. (3) Frank and (4) Olive were twins. The latter is deceased. Frank, a contractor of St. Louis, married Dilemma Bail and has three children: Annie L., Walter and Charles. (5) Lucretia is the wife of A. M. Hatfield, of Clinton, and the children born to them were Elmer and Frank, both living; and George and an infant daughter, both deceased. (6) Minnie is deceased. (7) Albert L., station agent in Vandalia, Illinois, married Stella Dickinson and they have three children: Clyde, Lloyd and Pauline. (8) George is an engineer residing at home. (9) Leon, a bookkeeper in Clinton, married Alice M. Wilson, and they have three children: Odell L., Harriet L. and Carl L. (10) Edna died young. (11) William is a railroad brakeman. (12) Harry V. is a boiler maker.

During his boyhood Mr. Kirk united with the Methodist Episcopal church, and was throughout life an active and faithful member, and served in various church offices. He did much for the cause of temperance, and was elected councilman on the anti-license ticket several years. On the 16th of October, 1860, he was made a Mason, and was ever afterward a consistent member of that body, following closely its precepts, and serving as tyler of the lodge thirteen years. He died October 11, 1897, and his death was widely and deeply mourned, for he was a man of many sterling traits of character, who had a host of warm friends and was highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him.

JOHN KISSACK.  (Volume 1, Page 314)

It is astonishing to witness the success of young men who have emigrated to America without capital and have worked their way upward to a position of affluence. The readiness with which they adapt themselves to circumstances and take advantage of the opportunities offered, brings to them success and wins them a place among the leading men of the community in which they reside. To this class belongs John Kissack, a large land owner and successful farmer, who is now living in a beautiful residence in the suburbs of Farmer City.

He was born on the Isle of Man, February 14, 1844, and is a son of John and Catherine (Craine) Kissack, who were of Manx ancestry and spent their entire lives on the Isle of Man. They were hardy people, of strong constitutions, and lived to a ripe old age, the father being seventy-four at the time of his death and the mother eighty-one. Our subject is the second in order of birth in their family of ten children, the others being Eleanor, Thomas, William, Robert, Caesar, Daniel, David, Edward and James.

During his minority, Mr. Kissack remained on the island home and during the last three years of his residence there worked as a laborer away from home. At the age of twenty-two he determined to come to America. Borrowing part of the money with which to pay his passage, he crossed the Atlantic and landed in Portland, Maine, whence he proceeded to Rochester, New York, where he found employment as a farm hand, but believing the west was the best place for a young man, he decided to come to Illinois in 1867 and grow up with the country. Subsequent years demonstrated that he displayed excellent judgment in making a selection for a home. He was first employed in a warehouse in Tazewell county, then engaged in brick-making, and later in agricultural pursuits, being willing to work at anything whereby he could earn an honest dollar.

The height of Mr. Kissack’s ambition at that time was to own a farm, and in the spring of 1870 he purchased eighty acres of raw prairie land in McLean county of H. C. Luce, and to its cultivation and improvement he at once turned his attention.

Success crowned his well-directed efforts, and the fields yielded a bountiful return for the care and labor bestowed upon them. Later Mr. Kissack purchased two hundred and eighty acres of land, forty acres of which is in Piatt county, and in 1890 bought the Pat Campbell farm of one hundred and ninety acres in Santa Anna township, DeWitt county, and in the fall of 1901 bought two hundred and eighty acres of the William Lindsey farm and now has eight hundred and thirty acres in all. He has always given considerable attention to the raising of stock, and keeps a high grade of horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, his specialty being largely mixed Shropshire sheep. He now makes his home on his farm in Santa Anna township, and in the midst of a beautiful grove has erected a very large and elegant modern residence.

Mr. Kissack was married in 1879 to Miss Clarissa M. Maxfield, a native of Macoupin county, Illinois, and a daughter of Robert H. and Sarah (Petefish) Maxfield, and granddaughter of George and Sarah (Thomas) Maxfield, all of whom were born in Kentucky and at an early day removed to Macoupin county Illinois. There the grandfather died when over seventy years of age, and his wife passed away at the age of eighty-nine. Their children were George W., Charles, Thomas, Porter, Clara, Sarah, Margaret and Eliza. Robert H. Maxfield, who was a carpenter and farmer by occupation, died at the age of sixty-six years, and his wife is still living at the age of eighty-four. They had a family of eight children, namely: John W., S. Elizabeth, James K., Ellen P., Clarissa M., Luther R., M. Bell and Edwin G. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Kissack were Ellen Olivia, who died at the age of three months; John Robert, who is attending the Farmer City high school; and Luther M., who died at the age of seven years.

Politically Mr. Kissack is a strong Prohibitionist; and religiously is an active and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he has served as steward, trustee, class leader, superintendent of the Sunday school and is now Bible class teacher. He has led an upright, honorable and useful life, well worthy of emulation, and is held in the highest respect by all who know him.

ALVIS H. LANE. (Volume 1, Page 219)

Prominent among the wealthy farmers and influential citizens of Waynesville township is numbered the subject of this sketch, whose home is on section 25. He was born on the 2d of February, 1840, on the old homestead on the same section, and belongs to a very old and highly respected family of this county, who took an important part in its early development and upbuilding. His father, Jesse H. Lane, was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, in 1811, and was a son of Tilmon Lane, who removed with his family to DeWitt county, Illinois, in 1830, and entered land on section 25, Waynesville township, where he improved a farm, but was not long permitted to enjoy his new home, as he died about 1833.

Jesse H. Lane, our subject's father, came with the family to this county and assisted his father in opening up the farm. On the latter's death he succeeded to the place, and throughout life successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits, becoming one of the substantial farmers of the county. In early life he married Miss Jane Hayes, who came here when a young lady and died in 1860. His death occurred in 1877, and both were laid to rest in Rock Creek cemetery, where a suitable monument has been erected to their memory. They were prominent members of the Rock Creek Christian church, which Mr. Lane assisted in organizing, and of which he was a deacon for many years. He was a soldier of the Black Hawk war and served as road commissioner in his township for a time.

Our subject is the second in order of birth in a family of five children, the others being: Sarah Ann, wife of Amos Cisco, of Logan county, Illinois; Margaret J., wife of Jacob Coppenbarger, of Waynesville, DeWitt county; and Emeline and James C., both deceased.

Mr. Lane, of this review, grew to manhood upon the home farm, assisting his father in the arduous task of transforming the wild land into well-cultivated fields. Many a day has he devoted to breaking prairie with three yoke of oxen. His education was acquired in the district schools and the Clinton high school. After reaching man's estate he was married in this county, September 2, 1860, to Miss Sarah Jane Bayless, who was born in Indiana but was reared in DeWitt county, Illinois, where she died in 1874, leaving two children who are still living, namely: Malinda, now the wife of John Jeffrey, who is living in southwestern Missouri; and Jesse H., who is married and resides in Waynesville township, this county. On the 6th of February, 1876, Mr. Lane was again married, his second union being with Miss Nancy Vinson, a daughter of A. J. Vinson, of Clinton, whose sketch appears on another page of this volume. She was born, reared and educated in this county. There is one son by the second marriage, Charles H., who is now operating a part of his father's farm. He is married and has one son, Howard.

After his first marriage Mr. Lane located on the farm where he now resides, commencing with one hundred acres of land, to which he has added from time to time until he now owns five hundred and forty acres in one body. This is well tiled and fenced and is supplied with all the conveniences and accessories found upon a model farm of the present day. The buildings are in first class condition, and everything about the place betokens a thrifty and painstaking owner who thoroughly understands the vocation he has chosen as a life work. He raises a good grade of stock and is accounted one of the most skillful farmers of his community.

Mr. Lane's first presidential vote was cast for General George B. McClellan, and he has always been a stanch supporter of the Democratic party and its principles, but has never cared for office. He served, however, as road commissioner three years, as a member of the school board a few years, and as clerk and president of the district, having always taken an active interest in educational affairs. He and his family attend the Christian church, having been reared in that faith, and he is one of the most highly respected and esteemed citizens of Waynesville township.

ELBERT D. LANE. (Volume 1, Page 59)

One of the fine properties of DeWitt county is the farm of Elbert D. Lane, located on section 23, Texas township. Here is a fine rural home, well-tilled acres, abundant harvests and all modern equipments for successfully and scientifically carrying forward the work of farming and stock raising. Upon the meadows graze large numbers of stock, fine cattle and thoroughbred horses, including heavy draft horses, and the place has an air of neatness and thrift compatible with good judgment and excellent management.

A son of the state which has yielded him such profitable returns for labor invested, Mr. Lane was born at Long Point, DeWitt county, Illinois, October 3, 1837, and is therefore one of the pioneers of this section of the state. His parents, William and Ella (Maxwell) Lane, were natives, respectively, of North and South Carolina, and the father came at an early day from Kentucky, and settled near Long Point, DeWitt county, Illinois. As a preliminary to an extended farming experience in his adopted county he erected a little log cabin upon the eighty acres of land which he entered, and to which was later added twenty acres of timber land. For many years he successfully tilled his land and became a permanent fixture of the community. However, he eventually removed to the town of Clinton, where he died at the age of fifty-nine years, his wife surviving him for five years. He was a Democrat in politics, and was a member of the Christian church, as were his four children, two of whom are now living and his wife.

In the public schools of DeWitt county, Elbert D. Lane acquired the average education of the farmer boys of his neighborhood, following which he worked by the month for a number of years. About 1876 he rented land from C. H. Moore, and he still continues to reside on the Moore property, which consists of two hundred and forty acres. April 14, 1858, he married Rosalie Percy, daughter of Silvanus and Anna (Bellows) Percy. Mrs. Lane is a native of Ohio, and her father was born in Vermont, and removed to DeWitt county in 1857, where he retired from his occupation of farming and settled in Clinton. To Mr. and Mrs. Lane have been born the following children: Martha, who is deceased; William Alvus; James Alvin, who is a twin to William Alvus, and lives on a farm in Piatt county; Edward, who is living in DeWitt county; Kate, who makes her home with her parents; and Elbert, who is a farmer in Clintonia township, DeWitt county. Three children died in infancy.

Mr. Lane cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and has since voted independently, although he is in favor of free silver. He is a member of the Christian church, as are his wife and daughter. When her sister's child, Miss Maude Bell, was four years of age, Mrs. Lane received her into the family, and since that time she has continued to reside with them.

TILLMON LANE. (Volume 1, Page 288)

In the pioneer epoch in the history of this section of Illinois, Tillmon Lane came to DeWitt county, and has been an important factor in its substantial development and permanent improvement. He located here in 1835 and in the work of progress he has ever borne his part.

This worthy pioneer was born in Monroe county, Kentucky, on the 14th of October, 1823, and comes of good old Revolutionary stock, his maternal grandfather having aided the colonies in their struggle for independence. His father, Ezekiel Lane, was born in Tennessee, but at an early day removed to Kentucky, where he married Miss Telithea Guest, who was also a native of Tennessee, and when young removed with her parents to Kentucky, the family being among the first settlers of that state. In 1827, when our subject was only four years old, Ezekiel Lane brought his family to Illinois, and located in Hamilton county, where he engaged in farming for eight years. In 1835 he took up his residence in what is now Creek township, DeWitt county, but at that time formed a part of Macon county. He took up the land on which the village of Lane now stands, entering this tract at the land office in Danville, Illinois, and paying one dollar and a quarter per acre for the same. He devoted a part of his time to the work of the ministry, being one of the first preachers of the New Light church to locate in this state. He died in 1853, at the age of fifty-two years, and his wife in 1846, at the age of forty-two years. They were the parents of seven children, who reached mature years, and four of the family are still living, namely: Tillmon, of this review; William B., who is represented on another page of this volume; Marinda, a resident of Nebraska; and Polly Ann, wife of Jerry Lane, of Lane, Illinois.

For a short time during his boyhood Tillmon Lane pursued his studies in the subscription schools of Hamilton county. The old school house was built of logs with a puncheon floor, greased paper windows, and hewed log benches. Here he was a student for a few weeks during the winter. After the removal of the family to DeWitt county he spent six months in school on Rock Creek, about two miles east of Waynesville, which was really a good school for those days. This completed his education with the exception of a week of study in a school located about two miles from his home in Creek township. At that time there were no roads in this locality, and in going to and from school he would have to break his own way through the snow and brush.

Mr. Lane was reared to farm work, and remained at home until twenty-one years of age, when he entered eighty acres of land in Creek township at the land office in Danville, it requiring three days to make the trip. In 1847 he laid the first government land warrant entered at that place, it being a Mexican war land warrant. In 1847 and 1848 Mr. Lane broke forty acres of his land and built a one-room house, sixteen by eighteen feet, besides fencing his land. For his first crop of wheat he received fifty-seven cents per bushel, selling the first crop at Clinton for one hundred and fifty dollars, which was the most money he ever had up to that time. Later he hauled forty bushels of wheat to Chicago, which was then a small town and a veritable mudhole. This trip consumed twelve days. As he prospered in his farming operations he added more land to the original purchase and to-day owns three hundred acres in lots which now form the town of Lane. This place was laid out in 1873, and he has since made two additions. Mr. Lane has engaged in general farming but has devoted his attention principally to the raising of cattle and hogs. Since 1873 he has also been interested in grain buying, and in 1898 was made agent for the Middle Division Grain Company at Lane.

On the 15th of November, 1848, Mr. Lane married Miss Elizabeth Thompson, who was born in Kentucky, of which state her parents, Jeremiah and Nancy Thompson, were also natives. During her infancy the family removed to Sangamon county, Illinois, and in the fall of 1836 came to DeWitt county, locating in what is now Creek township, where Mr. Thompson took up government land and engaged in farming. Both he and his wife lived to a ripe old age, he dying at the age of eighty-six years, and she when about eighty years of age.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lane were born ten children, as follows: (1) James, a stock-dealer, shipping to Chicago and Bloomington markets, married Miss Susanna Graham, and they have six children, namely: Welby, Una, Lizzie, Tillmon, Ruth and Montgomery; (2) Ellen, who married David Parker, of Creek township, and died, leaving five children, namely: James, Ona, Nathan, Noble and Ira; (3) Martha, who is the wife of George Gibson, of Forrest City, Mason county, Illinois; (4) Jane, deceased, was the wife of Harvey Graham, of Creek township; (5) Richard, who has charge of the grain business for his father at Lane. He married Effie Luttrell, and they have one child, French; (6) Jerimah [Jeremiah?], residing on one of Mr. Lane's farms, is married to Miss Nellie Roberts; (7) Ezekiel, a resident of Nebraska, and a farmer by occupation; (8) William, a farmer, and now a resident of Lane. Lelander and John J. are both deceased.

Mrs. Lane, who was a consistent member of the Christian church, died February 21, 1884, and was laid to rest in the Lisenby cemetery of Creek township. For his second wife our subject married Mrs. Sarah McAboy, widow of Benjamin McAboy, of Creek township.

For almost half a century Mr. Lane has been an active and prominent member of the Christian church, and has been officially connected with it for many years. He is also a member of Delphi Lodge, No. 84, F. & A. M., of Clinton, and is a stanch supporter of the Democratic party and its principles. He has served a number of terms as supervisor, and was a member of many important committees, including those selected to purchase a site for the poor farm and sell the swamp lands of the county. In 1872 he was elected to the general assembly, and was a member of that body when the statutes of the state were revised. Through the sixty-six years of his residence in DeWitt county Mr. Lane has become widely known and his many excellent traits of character have gained him the high regard of many friends. He has witnessed almost the entire development of the county and has taken a very prominent part in its improvement. When he located in Creek township there were but fifty acres of land under cultivation within its borders, and there were no roads and fences. Game of all kinds was plentiful, and a number of Indians were still here. In early days Mr. Lane bought stock all over central Illinois, and rode hundreds of miles on horseback over the wild prairies.

Note: There is no mention of Ezekiel Lane being married twice. Benjamin McAboy's full name was William Benjamin McAboy. From his tombstone: Tillmon Lane died July 5, 1911.

WILLIAM B. LANE. (Volume 1, Page 342)

It requires some effort of the imagination and the authentic stories of the old pioneers to enable the modern tourist to associate the smiling fields of grain, the comfortable homes and varied improvements to be found in DeWitt county, Illinois, with the time when, but a few years ago, this was a remote frontier, with no communication with civilization except by days of slow travel over trails made by wild beasts or Indians. This was the condition of the land when our subject, who is William B. Lane, came to this prosperous county.

The birth of Mr. Lane was in Monroe county, Kentucky, on September 16, 1827, and he was but six weeks old when his parents, who were Ezekiel and Talitha Lane, came to Hamilton county, Illinois. Both of them were natives of Tennessee, who after marriage had moved to Kentucky, and as indicated, located in Illinois. For eight years they engaged in farming in Hamilton county, but in 1835, Mr. Lane walked all the distance to Danville, and there entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land in what is now DeWitt county, and in what was later named Creek township. For many years Ezekiel Lane was known to the people of this neighborhood as a faithful minister in the New Light church, and both he and his wife were known as kind, good neighbors, among the early settlers. Mr. Lane died at the age of fifty-two years, his wife passing away at the age of forty-two. Four of their eight children still survive, these being: Tillmon, a resident of Lane; William B., our subject; Marinda, the widow of John Stone, an early settler of this county, and now resides with a daughter in Wood River, Nebraska; and Mary Ann, who married Jerry Lane, now living in Lane, Illinois.

The early education of our subject, William B. Lane, was necessarily very limited. The school-house was made of logs and the greased canvas which supplied the lack of window glass, admitted more cold and storm than light, but the time spent there was all too short for the eager little student who trudged though the snow during the bitter winter weather, only regretting that he could be spared from the farm work only a few days in the week. However, the knowledge now possessed by Mr. Lane is of a practical kind, reading and association with men of affairs has developed and broadened his store of information, and he is one of the intelligent citizens of Lane.

Early in life our subject learned the hardships of pioneer farming, and for many years he followed agricultural pursuits exclusively. In the meantime the town of Lane, named in his honor, had been established on a portion of his land, and in 1883 he removed thither and opened up a grocery business which he successfully conducted for a period of twelve years, since which he has lived in comparative retirement, in his pleasant home in Lane. His means are ample, and he owns a farm of one hundred acres in Creek township.

Mr. Lane was first married in 1851 to Jane Murphy, who was a daughter of Lieutenant Richard Murphy, who was killed in the Mexican war, and seven children were born to this union, viz.: Talitha, who married George Peck, and resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and has two children; Sarah, who is the widow of Ole Oleson, of Decatur, has five children, two girls and three boys; Ezekiel, who conducts a restaurant in Clinton, Illinois, married Julia Kitelinger, and has three children; John, who resides at Storm Lake, Iowa, married Annie Arnold, and has four children; Louisa, deceased, married Fred Wemple, of Texarkana, Arkansas, and left one child; Lewis, who lives at Champaign, Illinois, is engaged in the railroad business, married Susan MacMahon and has four children, his second marriage being to Cora Frank, from which has resulted one child; and Maggie, who lives in Colorado Springs, the wife of Henry Gouker, and they have two children.

In 1877 the mother of these children died, and the second marriage of Mr. Lane was on October 17, 1880, to Mrs. Hannah Kranich, who was the widow of Alfred Kranich. She was a daughter of Ezekiel Lisenby, who was a native of Tennessee, and came to DeWitt county in the early days of its settlement. He moved to Kansas and there his wife died soon after, at the age of seventy-two, but he survived until he was eighty-four years old. Mrs. Lane is one of a family of fifteen children, seven of whom are yet living, although no others have located in this county. By her first marriage was born one daughter— Ida, now the wife of George Stone, of Hoopestown, Illinois, and she has eight children. By her second marriage Mrs. Lane is the mother of one son— Orville, who was born on August 16, 1882, and who lives at home.

Mrs. Lane early learned the lessons incident to pioneer life, and experienced its privations to the fullest extent. When she was but seven years old she had spun enough wool to make herself a dress, and she continued to spin wool for that purpose until she was eighteen years of age. As her father was a cripple, and there were no boys in the family with the exception of the youngest child, she and her sisters worked in the fields, chopped wood in the timber, and in other ways performed the tasks and duties of a man. She split the rails for many rods of fence, and then laid them, but in looking back over those days long since gone, she finds that with all the hard work her life was a happy one. Surely the young men and women of this day owe a debt of gratitude to such noble women, who endured so much to make possible what all now enjoy.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Lane are consistent members of the Christian church, in which, for a long period, Mr. Lane was an officer and superintendent of the Sunday-school. For forty-five years he has been a member of this religious body and has ever exerted an influence in favor of morality and Christianity. In politics he has been a life-long Democrat, but never a seeker for office. He has witnessed wonderful changes in this locality, and has been identified with much of the progress and development.

JERSEY D. LA TEER. (Volume 1, Page 224)

Jersey D. La Teer is the junior member of the firm of Crosby & La Teer, who are now successfully engaged in the real estate, loan and fire insurance business in Farmer City. He is but a recent acquisition to the goodly array of progressive business men in that thriving town, but his ability, enterprise and upright methods have already established for him an enviable reputation. Although he is still a young man comparatively his popularity is established on a firm basis— that of his own well-tested merit.

Mr. La Teer was born near Bellflower, McLean county, Illinois, July 16, 1867, and is a son of David A. La Teer, now a resident of Ford county, this state. Our subject acquired his early education in the district school near his boyhood home, and later attended the Gibson high school. In 1884 he entered the printing office of the Gibson City Enterprise, and in less than three years worked his way upward to foreman. On the 19th of August, 1887, he became connected with the Illinois Central Railroad as station agent at Kumler, Illinois; later he was clerk in the freight office at Springfield, and subsequently was station agent at Chestnut, New Holland, Roberts and Farmer City. Severing his connection with the company, he formed a partnership with E. L. Crosby, July 23, 1900, and they have since engaged in their present business. So successful have they been that they are now at the head of a large and profitable business, which is constantly increasing and now extends not only throughout DeWitt and adjoining counties, but in other states as well.

Mr. La Teer was married in 1888 to Miss Alice Anelia Heller, a daughter of Daniel H. Heller, of Piatt county, and to them were born two children: a son who died in infancy; and H. Lynne. They have a nice home, which is centrally located on Plum street, and which was purchased of Mr. B. F. Garver.

In politics Mr. La Teer is a strong Republican, has served as alderman of the city, and is now a member of the improvement board. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Blue lodge, No. 710, F. & A. M.; the Chapter, R. A. M.; and the Eastern Star, to which his wife also belongs. He is one of the energetic, progressive and reliable business men of Farmer City and is very popular among his fellow citizens.

RICHARD A. LEMON (Volume I, Page 463)

Richard A. Lemon was born at Berlin, Sangamon county, Illinois, October 16, 1848, and when a small boy removed with his parents to Blue Ridge township, Piatt County, Illinois, to a raw prairie farm, where they resided at the beginning of the Civil War, when three of his elder brothers enlisted and went to war, all of whom gave their lives to the cause of the Union: James D., of the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers (Yates Phalanx), William and John I., of the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois volunteers. In the last year of the war the subject of this brief sketch served as a recruit in the "Yates" Phalanx," at the age of fifteen years, as a private soldier in the ranks, participating in the Richmond and Petersburg, Virginia, campaign, and returning home as the only survivor of the four brothers. He resumed his studies in different schools, obtaining an academic education. On account of the diminution in the working force in the family (one brother having died at home during the war), and the failing health of the father, the farm was disposed of and the remaining members of the family removed to El Paso, Woodford county, Illinois, in 1866, when and where the subject of this sketch entered the law office of W. G. Randall and pursued the study of law under his direction for about one year, but becoming discouraged he abandoned it and secured a position on the Toledo, Peoria & Warsaw Railroad at that place as freight transferrer. He was also a switchman and in other minor capacities served this company, when, in 1868, he resumed his studies, this time in the office of Ingersoll, Harper & Cassell, completing the same in 1870, when he was admitted to the bar, August 13 of that year, and opened a law office in Farmer City, DeWitt county, Illinois, where his efforts were rewarded with indifferent success until August 13, 1877, when he removed to Clinton, the county seat, where he has been engaged in the practice of the law ever since.

He loves his profession, and believes in it. It is his business to the exclusion of all else. Has never carried "side lines," such as money loans, insurance, real estate, etc., believing that the practice of law affords enough opportunity for one to devote his entire time and energies.

In 1874 he was married to Miss Opha Kyle, and they have three sons: Frank K., Carl W., and Lawrence W.

Mr. Lemon is not wealthy but has always made an economical living for his family. He has never held any office worth mentioning, except possibly, member of the State Board of Pardons, to which he was appointed by Governor John R. Tanner, July 1, 1897, and held the same as chairman of the board until 1901.

He knows little about his remote ancestry, and cares less. Respects the doctrine that "blood will tell," but believes more strongly in individualism. If the person has the right stuff in him it is immaterial how he got it, and the only sure test is to see the results.

From what has been said, it scarcely seems necessary to say that in politics he is a Republican, and we may add that his views upon this as well as other public questions are radical and pronounced. He is not popular in the sense of a dissembling, cringing, hypocritical trimmer, but is an outspoken, open field fighter, contending to the last for what he believes to be right, regardless of consequences.

GEORGE L. LIGHTHALL. (Volume 1, Page 469)

One of the most energetic and enterprising young men of DeWitt county is George L. Lighthall, who for the past four years has been successfully engaged in business in Wapella as a dealer in hardware, agricultural implements, buggies, wagons, etc. He was born in that village on the 23d of February, 1871, and is a representative of an old New York family. His paternal grandfather, John L. Lighthall, was born in the Empire state, and on coming west, about 1860, located in DeWitt county, Illinois. Our subject's father, A. H. Lighthall, was also a native of New York, and came with the family to this state. When the Civil war broke out he entered the service of his country, and for four years valiantly fought for the old flag and the cause it represented. When hostilities ceased he returned home and settled in Wapella. He wedded Miss Mary Scoggin, a native of this county, and a daughter of Aaron Scoggin, one of its pioneers. Two children blessed this union: Carrie, wife of H. E. Duncan, who is now holding a position in our subject's store; and George L., of this review.

Our subject was reared and educated in Wapella, and began his business career as clerk in a hardware store, where he remained four years, gaining a thorough, practical business training. In 1897 he embarked in business for himself on borrowed capital, having only ten dollars with which to start, but at the end of the first week he had a stock valued at sixty dollars and was only in debt for half the amount. He steadily prospered and soon built up a good trade; his business amounted to two thousand dollars the first year. He also had a mail contract. In 1900 he did thirty-five hundred dollars worth of business and in 1901 over four thousand dollars worth. As his financial resources have increased he has enlarged his business, and now carries a fine stock of shelf and heavy hardware, farm implements, buggies, wagons, etc. He probably sells more buggies than any other dealer in the county, having sold one hundred and fourteen from the 1st of January until the 15th of August, 1901. He may take a just pride in his success, for it is due entirely to his own unaided efforts, good management, and excellent business ability. He bought a lot and erected one of the neatest residences in Wapella.

Mr. Lighthall was married December 21, 1895, to Miss Belle E. Duncan, who was born in this county, but was reared in Kansas. Her father, J. E. Duncan, was an old settler here and a resident of Wapella, as well as a veteran of the Civil war. Our subject and his wife have four sons, Lewis, Wilfred, Thomas and George.

Politically Mr. Lighthall is a stanch Republican, and has served his fellow citizens as a member of the town board and township clerk two years. Fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, and religiously both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Wapella.

JOHN A. LISENBY. (Volume 1, Page 453)

Among the enterprising and wide awake business men of Weldon is numbered John Almon Lisenby. He was born in Creek township, February 27, 1851, and is a son of Charles Simpson and Eliza (McKinley) Lisenby, who were natives of Kentucky and Ohio, respectively. His great grandfather, Abraham Lisenby, was born in North Carolina and married Rebecca Lyon, a native of Tennessee. He was a son of Reuben Lisenby, who was a Revolutionary soldier and lost his life during the siege of Charleston. Abraham was bound out to a North Carolinian soon after the war, and on attaining his majority removed to east Tennessee and thence to Illinois. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, six sons and four daughters. He was buried on the tract of land he had selected as a home and which is still used as a cemetery.

The paternal grandparents of our subject were Benjamin G. and Margaret (Simpson) Lisenby, both of whom were born in Tennessee, but in the early part of the nineteenth century moved to Kentucky. In 1828 Benjamin Lisenby brought his family to Sangamon county, Illinois, but two years later settled in what is now known at Creek township, where he improved one hundred and sixty acres of prairie and one hundred and five acres of timber land. Here he spent the remainder of his life. He was the father of six children, all of whom grew to maturity, they are as follows: Charles S., our subject's father; Rebecca, who married Thomas Ritcher; Nancy A., who became Mrs. Suver; Ritta married T. D. Fisher; William J.; Sarah, who became Mrs. J. H. Salisbury.

Charles Simpson Lisenby, the father of the gentleman whose name heads this review, was born in Monroe county, Kentucky, January 30, 1822, and when but eight years of age came with his parents to Creek township. Here he was reared to manhood and his life from youth to age was one of almost incessant labor, and the slight education which he received was obtained in the district schools. While living with his father he improved a farm in the same township, preparatory to making a home for himself. On March 4, 1847, was celebrated his marriage with Miss Eliza A. McKinley, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of William and Susan McKinley, of Farmer City (formerly called Mount Pleasant), this county. This union resulted in the birth of five children, all of whom grew to maturity, namely: Missoura, who married William Winslow; James F.; John A., our subject; Minnie A., now Mrs. Joseph G. Garrigus; and Maude, who married Edward Sackett.

Mr. Lisenby acquired a considerable amount of property, owning one-fourth of the entire town of Weldon, which place he took a very active part in settling and laying out, and his farm land in the immediate neighborhood consisted of about one thousand acres. He built the first residence in Weldon in 1872. In 1881 he erected an elevator, and with the assistance of his son carried on an extensive business as a lumber, grain and coal merchant. For several years he served as supervisor in Nixon township, and was always an industrious, enterprising, liberal man, enjoying the confidence and esteem of his friends and neighbors. He departed this life January 23, 1882.

John Almon Lisenby was reared on the family homestead in Creek township and received a common school education. He moved to Weldon with his parents in 1872, where for three years he engaged in the agricultural pursuits. As before stated, he then became associated with his father in the lumber, grain and coal business, where he continued until his father's death. From that time until 1898 he was engaged in the breeding of Norman horses. In March, 1900, he embarked in the grocery business at Weldon, in which he has since continued, meeting with marked success in all his undertakings, his being the only exclusive grocery store in the town.

Mr. Lisenby was first united in marriage with Miss Alice, daughter of David M. and Jane Cavender, of Nixon township, the ceremony being celebrated on September 12, 1876. This union was blessed with three children, of whom two survive: Albert L. and Charles C. Mrs. Lisenby departed this life May 19, 1892, and on October 19, 1893, Mr. Lisenby took for his second wife Ada, daughter of James and Anna (Wilson) Rhodes, of Ohio. By this second union two children were born: Bly A. and Myrtel Lucille.

Mr. Lisenby held the office of supervisor of Nixon township for one term, and served three terms of two years each as president of the village of Weldon. Fraternally he is a member of Weldon Lodge, No. 746, A. F. & A. M.; Goodbrake Chapter, No. 94, R. A. M., of Clinton; Mozart Chapter, No. 77, O. E. S.; Weldon and Banner Circle, No. 26, Weldon. Politically he is an ardent supporter of the Democratic ticket.

GEORGE A. LITSINBERGER. (Volume 1, Page 429)

George A. Litsinberger was born in Hancock county, Ohio, April 16, 1851, and is the son of Henry and Margaret (Bell) Litsinberger. The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother was a native of Ohio. The parents were married in Ohio, where the father followed the occupation of a farmer. In 1856 the father was engaged in railroading, and finally came to Illinois, locating in Wilson township, DeWitt county, where he entered one hundred and twenty acres of wild land. Only a small portion of this was broken and a small log home was the only residence. This contained two rooms and a loft, but the little family lived in this small abode and worked hard to make a pleasant home. Shade and fruit trees were set out, which to-day furnish fine fruit and afford grateful shade. In 1874 the father erected the present comfortable house, to which improvements have been added from time to time. He was a Republican during his later years, although a Democrat until 1856, but would never accept office. Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist church and he was an officer until the increasing infirmities of age compelled him to decline further election. The mother was also very active in the church, which was held in what was known as the Bell school-house, on the site of the present Bell chapel. The father died in 1893, aged eighty-six years, while the mother died in 1874, aged sixty, and both are interred in Woodlawn cemetery. Eight children were born to them, namely: William, who resides at Centralia, Illinois; a child who died in infancy; Allen, who resides at Decatur, Illinois; John G., who resides in Bloomington; Emily J., who married D. W. Hickman and lives in Tennessee; Milton A., who resides in Wilson township, this county; and our subject.

George A. Litsinberger came to the county when but five years of age and received his education in the common schools of his district, attending school in the winter and working upon the farm in the summer until he was twenty-two, after which he confined his attention to farm work. At his father's death he purchased the interests of the other heirs and now conducts the home farm, which he has largely improved. On this property he carries on general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of raising draught horses for the market. His place is one of the best-kept farms in the township, and his good management is demonstrated on every side.

In 1876 Mr. Litsinberger married Miss Margaret E. Smith, who was born in Ohio and was a daughter of William and Ellen (Taylor) Smith. Two children were born to our subject and his wife, namely: Ernest, a resident of Harp township, married Edna Stubblefield and they have two children, Lucile and Leland. Gertrude resides with our subject. Mrs. Litsinberger died in February, 1900, at forty-eight years of age, and was interred in Woodlawn cemetery. Both our subject and his wife early connected themselves with the Methodist church. He is now one of the stewards and trustees of the church as well as class-leader, and he takes a very active and earnest part in all the work of the denomination. In politics he is a Democrat, but has never taken an active part in politics, his own affairs and church matters absorbing all of his attention.

WILLIAM LONG. (Volume 1, Page 251)

This well-known and highly respected citizen of Creek township, residing on section 17, is a native of Carroll county, Ohio, born October 17, 1838, and is a son of Young Benjamin and Catherine (Weaver) Long, natives of Ohio and Maryland, respectively. The parents were married in the Buckeye state where they continued to live for some years, and about 1850 removed to Bartholomew county, Indiana, where the father purchased a farm and engaged in its operation until called to his final rest in 1852, at the age of fifty years. His wife survived him many years, passing away in 1893, at the age of seventy-nine. They had ten children, of whom seven are now living, namely: William, or subject; John, a resident of Indiana; Betsy, wife of Thomas Miller, of that state; Ellen, wife of Hiram Royse, of Piatt county, Illinois; Mary, wife of Peter Stilabower, of Indiana; Hannah, wife of John Walter, of the same state; and Isaac, also a resident of the Hoosier state; Philip was killed at Guntown, Mississippi, during the war of the Rebellion.

William Long began his education in the public schools of Ohio and finished it in Indiana after the removal of the family to that state. On leaving the parental roof, at the age of twenty-two years, he worked as a farm hand for a few years. In 1868 he went to Kansas, but remained there only a few days, and on his return stopped in Macon county, Illinois, where he spent two years in farming upon rented land. At the end of that time he purchased an unimproved farm of eighty acres on section 27, Creek township, DeWitt county, which through his perseverance and painstaking efforts, he has placed under a high state of cultivation, and to which he has added from time to time until he now has a well-improved and valuable farm of two hundred and forty acres. Besides his nice home, one of the most notable features of the place is a never-failing well of pure water.

On the 30th of November, 1860, Mr. Long was united in marriage with Miss Marietta Royse, who was born in Indiana. Her parents, Aaron B. and Elizabeth (McGuire) Royse, were both natives of the same state, and were of Welsh and Scotch descent. Her mother resides in Indiana, at the age of eighty-one years, while her father died in that state. Of the thirteen children born to them, seven are still living, namely: Henry, a resident of Monticello, Illinois; George, a resident of Piatt county, this state; John, Louis and Alice, all of Indiana; and Marietta, wife of our subject. Mrs. Long is the third in order of birth in this family, and is the mother of nine children, as follows: (1) Martha Alice is the wife of Michael Taylor, of Macon county, Illinois, and they have three children, William Cleveland, Cynthia Etta and Ida May. (2) John Henry, a resident of Creek township, DeWitt county, married Cadda Threasher and has four children, Maude, Josie, Clarence H., and Florence. (3) Arie, also of Creek township, married Minnie Bennett and has three children, John Henry, George Leslie and Ruby May. (4) Charles, of Creek township, married Laura Farran and has three children, Jay Bennett, Zella Fay and Raymond. (5) Daniel is at home. (6) Della married David Gano, of Creek township, and died, leaving one child, May Marie. Three other children are also deceased. The parents are both active and consistent members of the United Brethren church, and are most estimable people. In politics Mr. Long is a Democrat, and has filled some minor offices.