HISTORY OF MORGAN COUNTY, ILLINOIS
Its Past and present
Chicago: Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Publishers, 1878.
(reprinted by the Jacksonville Area Genealogical and Historical Society, 1975)
BACON, Andrew, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 14, P.O. Jacksonville; born in Morgan County, Oct. 11, 1845, having thus grown up with the county, and one whose interests are closely identified with its improvements; married Feb. 9, 1871, to Fanny, daughter of Anthony and Louisa Boston, of Morgan County; born July 1, 1849; this union has been blessed by one child: Ella, born Nov. 16, 1872; Mr. Bacon has devoted his industries solely to agricultural pursuits; ten years of his life were spent in Missouri, returning to his native county in 1876; homestead consists of 160 acres of beautifully located and highly improved land.
BAILEY, J. R. farmer, Sec. 2, P.O. Jacksonville, the founder of the Jacksonville Sentinel, and its editor and publisher from January, 1855, to January, 1872 _ seventeen years _ is a native of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He is of Protestant Irish descent; his ancestors emigrated from the north of Ireland during an early period in the first settlement of the colony of Pennsylvania. They bought a tract of land on the banks of the Delaware river, some thirty miles above Philadelphia, of the London Land Company, on which they settled, and on part of which some of their descendents yet reside. Here the subject of this sketch was born. In 1824, his father sold his farm and removed with his family to the city of Philadelphia. At the age of fourteen years he found it necessary to quit school and engage in the active business of life. He first served two years at the printing business in a small German and English office. At this time buckskin balls were in use for inking the type, and he remembers working at one time on the old wooden press used by Benjamin Franklin during his publishing career in Philadelphia, since on exhibition at the Patent Office at Washington. It came about in this way: The Franklin press had fallen into the hands of Mr. Ramage, the veteran Philadelphia press maker, who had it stored away. The Ramage press in the office needed repairing, and while this was being done, the old wooden Franklin press was loaned to the office as a substitute. The frame was like that of an ordinary country loom; the bed of stone and the platen a block of wood, just half the size of the bed, requiring two impressions to a full form. Tiring of the printing office, young Bailey, at the age of sixteen years, commenced to learn the carpenter trade, and, in company with his brother, Judge J.S. Bailey, of Macomb, Ill., he worked at that business two more years. Desiring, however, a vocation giving him more out_door exercise, and seeing an opportunity to better his condition by removing farther west, Mr. Bailey made up his mind to such a move. After his marriage to Miss Ann Henderson, a young lady from New Jersey, removed to Iowa, and commenced the work of building up a home on his claim, the land not yet being in market. At that day the country was very new, the entire territory being in possession of the Indians, with the exception of a narrow strip along the Mississippi river, known as the Black Hawk Purchase. All supplies had to come from the east side of the Mississippi, and the first settlers underwent many hardships, Mr. Bailey having to shoulder his full share of the exposure and toil of a frontier life. Not yet twenty_three years old, and unaccustomed to the use of the pioneer’s ax and maul, he found making rails and building log cabins heavy work; but he persevered until his farm was fenced and broke and the land paid for. During the first year of his settlement, Mr. Bailey began to take an active part in politics; was elected a justice of the peace, and in 1844 he received the Democratic nomination for representative in the territorial legislature. In the meantime the Indian title to the lands west to the Missouri river had been extinguished by purchase, and a number of new counties had been laid out and settled. Wapello, the new county west of Jefferson, became attached for legislative purposes, the district thus formed to be represented by one member of the council and one representative. The Democrats of Wapello claimed the representative, and Mr. Bailey voluntarily retired from the canvass to give place. During the next two years a State constitution was formed, and Iowa became a State. In the Fall of 1846, Mr. Bailey was nominated by the Democrats of Jefferson County _ again a district by itself _ for representative to the first State legislature. He was elected, and thus participated in settling the wheels of the new State government in motion, serving during the sessions of 1847_’48. Both those sessions were characterized by stormy excitement over the election of the first United States senators, and the legislature failed to elect until the session of 1849. During this period he began to exercise his talents as a writer, contributing articles of a political character to the local press, and hence his attention became directed to the publishing business. In 1852, Mr. Bailey sold his farm and removed to Mr. Sterling, Brown Co., Ill. Here he commenced his career as editor and publisher, by investing in a newspaper office that had been established by John Bigler, who went to California in 1849, and afterward became governor of that State. The paper was called the Prairie Pioneer, but the name was afterward changed to Chronotype. While publishing this sheet, Mr. Bailey was appointed postmaster at Mt. Sterling under Mr. Pierce’s administration, and held the office three years, resigning when he removed to Jacksonville in the Winter of 1855. Since that time the history of J.R. Bailey has been intimately blended with the history of Morgan County, there having been few matters of public interest in which, as a journalist, he has not taken an active part. He was an active member of the Illinois Press Association; was one of the committee that drafted its constitution, and was twice elected treasurer of the association. During 1854 he suffered domestic misfortune in the loss of his wife and two of his children. During the Fall of 1861 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary J. Williams, a lady of some local literary reputation. About this time, the long agitation of the slavery question culminated in the southern rebellion, and during continuance of that war, Mr. Bailey was of the class of Democratic editors who advocated a vigorous prosecution of the war for the purpose of crushing out the rebellion, and in this he was sustained by the leading men of his party in the county. As before stated, Mr. Bailey established the Jacksonville Sentinel in 1855 and published it as editor and proprietor for seventeen years _ embracing a period of long continued high political excitement and full of historical incidents. Such long continued active labors began to impair his health, and in 1872 his eyesight so far failed that he was unable to read or write, even with the aid of the strongest glasses. Having no sons of an age to assist him, he disposed of the Sentinel establishment to other parties, and has since resided on his farm near Jacksonville, living a retired and quiet life.
BAKER, James, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 7, township 15-9, P.O. Jacksonville; was born in Clark County, Ohio, in 1819; came to this county and precinct in 1842, with no money, and worked on a farm four years, for from eight to twelve dollars per month, when he bought his home farm of 306 acres, and improved it himself, to which he has added until now he owns 600 acres, and can be classed as one of the most successful farmers in this county, which is the result of his own industry and perseverance; married Sarah Sample, Feb. 12, 1846; she was born in Boone County, Illinois, Aug. 3, 1821; have five children, all living: Sarah E., Mary Ellen, Margaret Ann, Eliza Jane, and James M.
BALDWIN, Isaac, fruit farm and nursery, North Main Street, one mile north of city limits, P.O. box 334, Jacksonville; Mr. Baldwin came to Morgan County in the year 1858, and established himself in the above location and business, which, by close attention and enterprise, has increased yearly, until he now stands unrivalled in this county, his nursery comprising over 100 acres of land; he has had long and varied experience, both in Europe and this country; this, combines with unceasing study and experiment, is the keynote to his success; he makes a specialty of the growing of fruits, choice vegetables, ornamental trees, shrubs, etc., etc.; among his stock may be found apple, pear, cherry, peach, plum, etc., also evergreens, tulips, shade and ornamental trees, and flowering shrubs in endless variety; grape vines, currants, gooseberries, strawberries, raspberries, dwarf serviceberries, and, in fact, every species of small fruits; Mr. Baldwin employs no agents, but invites all interested, or in want of any thing in his line, to visit his nursery and make his own selection; Mr. B. guarantees all trees and fruits home grown, and true to name, as he gives his own personal attention to grafting and budding; orders promptly filled, and satisfaction guaranteed; correspondence solicited as above.
BALDWIN, John, was born in McLean Co., Ill., in 1837; was raised on a farm; went to Mason Co. in 1842; was one of the earliest settlers of that county; was in the civil war for three years and one month; enlisted in the 23d Missouri Vol. Infantry; was honorably discharged in 1865; went to Cass Co. and bought a farm; was there a few years, then sold out and located in Meredosia, where he still resides; was married in 1857 to Miss Clark, of Monroe Co.; has property valued at $2,500.
BALL, Leonidas, brick_layer and plasterer, born in Sangamon Co., Ill., April 3, 1835. His father was an extensive farmer and blacksmith; when twelve years of age, parents moved to Jefferson Co., Ia.; at the age of twenty, Mr. Ball returned with his parents to Illinois, settling again in Sangamon; after one year’s residence, Mr. Ball moved to Missouri and resided five years; married Miss Adelia Jones, daughter of Thomas and Lucinda Jones, natives of Virginia; at the breaking out of the rebellion, returned to Sangamon Co., afterward to Morgan Co., where he now resides; holds office of school director and constable, sexton, superintendent and clerk of Church of Christ. Three children: John T., Florence Ann, infant child deceased.
BARR, A. Y. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 1, P.O. Jacksonville, son of Ebenezer and Mehitabel Barr, whose maiden name was Palmer. Ebenezer was a native of Boston, Mass. His wife a native of New York. They afterward removed to Erie Co., Pennsylvania, where young Barr was born Aug. 2, 1817. The head of the family was by occupation a carpenter, who worked at his calling during the war of 1812, and was presented with a battle ax used in the construction of vessels of war. He assisted in the erection of many block houses used in repelling an attack. The ax mentioned is now in the possession of the subject of this sketch. In 1832, the family moved to Ohio; in 1838 to Illinois, settling in Morgan Co., where he passed the remainder of his days. June 13, 1848, A. Y. Barr married Miss Mary P. Crawley; several years after he bought one hundred and ten acres near Woodson, his present property. Mr. B. has a large family; one daughter highly gifted, who will some day win a name in the art world.
BARROW, Newton L. farmer, Sec. 16, P.O. Jacksonville; parents were Aaron K. and Ali J., who were among the earliest settlers of Southern Illinois, who settled in Morgan Co. as early as 1830, emigrating from Kentucky; on his father’s farm in Morgan Co., young Barrow was born Oct. 4, 1844; his preliminary education was received in the district schools, and completed in the high school of Jacksonville. In 1876, was united in marriage to Mrs. Sarah Barnhart, who was the daughter of James and Rebecca Walker, natives of Virginia; the first husband of Mrs. B. was Levi Barnhart, who passed off the stage of life Nov. 10, 1875; five children by first marriage: James W., Joseph N., George N., Charles C., Levi A.; second marriage: Ira Hurlbut. Mr. B. is living on estate of 140 acres.
BATEMAN, Samuel, farmer, Sec. 8, P.O. Jacksonville. The subject of this sketch was born in Yorkshire, England, 1804, and came to this country in 1829 and settled in this county, where he has resided ever since. Married in England, Feb. 22, 1829, to Sarah Lee, of Yorkshire, born April, 1797, who shared with her husband the perils of a sea voyage and the many hardships incident to the emigrant’s life. This lady died Sept. 10, 1877. Their family has consisted of six children, three of whom, however, only survive: William, born June 27, 1831; Ann Elizabeth, Dec. 3, 1832, now Mrs. S. Saunderson, of Morgan Co.; Thomas, Dec. 4, 1833. Mr. Bateman arrived here the fall prior to the “deep snow”, many incidents of which he relates; he has devoted his long life of industry strictly to agricultural pursuits.
BECRAFT, Aquila, farmer, Sec. 11, T. 14, P.O. Jacksonville; born in Montgomery County, Maryland, July 22, 1797; emigrated to Kentucky in 1822; to Morgan County in 1833; was one of the earliest settlers of this county; was married in 1817 to Miss Anna M. Letton, of Kentucky; had by this marriage three children: Israel L., Mary Ann, wife of John Goltra, and Martha V., wife of M. C. Goltra; was married again, in 1823, to Miss Nancy Hitt, of Kentucky; had by this union thirteen children.
BENTLEY, David, farmer and stock_raiser, Sec. 34, P.O. Woodson. Mr. Bentley was born near Doncaster, Yorkshire, England, in 1816, there he grew to man hood, becoming a farmer. In 1840 he was united in marriage to Miss Ann Robinson, a native of Yorkshire. In 1852 he emigrated to America, and first settled near Jacksonville, Morgan Co. In 1868 he purchased 120 acres of land. Mr. B. came to this country without capital, save a good natural ability and a desire to become successful in life; a gentleman of strict integrity, he thinks and acts for himself. Children: Charles, David, Summerwell, Julia Ann, John S., and Sylvia Ann; seven deceased. John and Charles Bentley are well known for their skill in the use of the shot_gun.
BERGSCHNEIDER, Henry B. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 4. Mr. B. was born in Prussia, Sept. 19, 1833; on the farm of his father were passed the days of his youth; at the age of seventeen he left the scenes of his young days, and emigrated to America; he first landed in New Orleans, thence to Morgan County, where he worked first by the mouth; Feb. 19, 1860, he was united in marriage to Miss Magdalena Reichley; first purchased 80 acres of land at Sulphur Springs; for the past seventeen years Mr. Bergschneider has resided in township 14_8, and during that time, having the confidence of the people, has held the office of highway commissioner, etc.; eight children, seven living: Elizabeth, Joseph, Henry, Theodore, Mary, Stephen, and Magdalena; Mr. B. owns 243 acres of well improved land, and takes a leading position as a farmer.
BERRY, Columbus, farmer and stock_raiser Sec. 30, P.O. Waverly. Mr. Berry was born in Morgan Co., some 14 miles from the city of Jacksonville, in 1851. Morgan County has been his home, with the exception of ten years spent in Macon County. This sketch would be incomplete were we to omit to mention the parents of Columbus. His father was born in Kentucky, in 1805; in early manhood he married Miss Elizabeth Lower. Some forty_five years ago they became residents of Morgan Co., where the head of the family afterward became prominent in the affairs of the county, turning his attention to railroad matters and farming. Both husband wife died in 1872. Columbus is the owner of forty acres, situated in Township 13, R. 8.
BERRY, William M. farmer, Sec. 25, P.O. Jacksonville. Was born in Maryland, July 23,1796, and settled in Morgan County in 1829. He was married to Jane Sharp in 1829, in Tennessee. She was born in that State in 1815. They have raised six sons and six daughters, all of whom are living. He owns farm of 221 acres six miles northeast of Jacksonville.
BERRYMAN, Wm. A. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 33, T. 13, R. 9, P.O. Scottville, Macoupin Co., Ill., was born in Barren Co., Ky., Dec. 16, 1828; working for his father on a tobacco plantation, where they would produce as much as twelve hhds. of tobacco, averaging 2,200 lbs. In one season. Mr. Berryman did not receive any education, and at the age of twenty-two years he left home and started alone for the lead mines of Galena, Ill., but on account of lameness in his horse he stopped in Morgan Co. and engaged in driving stock to St. Louis, until the following spring, when he hired to work for Jacob Van Note on a farm at fifteen dollars per month. Mr. Berryman received one hundred and ten dollars in gold for a one hundred dollar bill, at Waverly, caused by St. Louis brokers trying to break the Missouri State Bank. In June, 1853, he married Mrs. Hannah Nall, relict of Russell Nall; five children - three still living: Levi O., Sarah Isabel, and Henry. Mr. Berryman owns 300 acres of land, having 250 acres in cultivation. His farm is one of the finest, if not the finest in Hart’s Prairie, which takes its name from Solomon Hart, who settled there more than fifty years ago.
BIRDSELL, Clark (deceased), the head of this biography, was born in the State of New York. In 1828, he conceived the brilliant idea of moving westward; being from boyhood a lover of adventure, and by occupation a boatman, he was inured to the cold and storm of our latitude; his settlement here makes him one of the early pioneers, as he cast his lot with the people of Morgan Co. prior to the “deep snow”; there were but few cabins then in Jacksonville, and as few families, Rearicks, “Squire Holliday, Dady Wright, and a few others, lived close to Jacksonville; removed and settled near Winchester, Scott Co.; was married Feb. 10, 1826, to Miss Wealthy Herron, by Mr. Hatcher, J.P.; the children born to this marriage were: Lewis, born Sept. 5, 1827; Rufus, born March 28, 1830; Sarah, born Sept. 25, 1832; John, born Nov. 1, 1833; William, born Sept. 6, 1835; Ruth, born Nov. 6, 1837; Winnie, born __, 1840; Simon, born Dec. 30 1843; James K. P., born Dec. 6, 1845; Clark, born Feb. 19, 1848; Wealthy, March 18, 1850; Cynthia E., born March 3, 1853, and Mary Anne, born Feb. 6, 1855. Winnie died in infancy; Cynthia died Feb. 18, 1854; Simon enlisted in the 33d Regt. Ill. Infy, and participated in all the movements of his regiment; was wounded at Fort Donaldson, and died of his wound June 1, 1862. James and John enlisted in the 101st Regt. Ill. Vols.; James, while on duty, was stricken with measles, which incapacitated him for duty; was discharged by reason of disability, and died June 1, 1863; John participated in all the conflicts of his regiment, and was wounded in the ear at Lookout Mountain, Tenn.; now lives in Calloway Co., Mo. William enlisted in the 61st Regt. Ill. Vols., and his clear record marked him as a brave soldier; participated in many battles, he re-enlisted in 1864 for still another three years; took brain fever, and died at Memphis, Tenn. Ruth married George Morning, lives in McDonough Co., Ill.; Wealthy married James Buck; Sarah married Andrew Brown., Clark married Jane Buck, and all three families reside at Roodhouse, Greene Co.; Mary married Robert Kitner, and lives in Indiana; Lewis married Sallie A. Smith, second wife Mary C. Armstrong. The wife of this old pioneer died Feb. 11, 1875, and her respected husband soon joined her on the other shore; he died March 25, 1875. Rufus Birdsell was born March 28, 1830; for years worked on his father’s farm; was married in December, 1822, to Miss Elizabeth White, daughter of Micajah and Mary L. White, by “Squire Heaton; they have had nine children: James A., born Aug. 17, 1854, died in infancy; William, born Feb. 3, 1856; Margaret A., born April 1, 1858; Ruth Jane, born Aug. 7, 1860; Wealthy, born Oct. 18, 1862; Rennie, born Dec. 18, 1864; Calvin, born March 7, 1866; infant daughter, born in February, 1869, died in infancy; George H., born Oct. 7, 1872. Mr. Birdsell, loving the honor of his flag better than home or hearthstone, enlisted in the 99th Regt. Ill. Vols. Infy, and participated in the many hard struggles of this veteran command, and was severely wounded May 24, 1863, in that terrible assault on the rebel works before Vicksburg. Gen. Benton’s brigade consisted of the 99th and 33d Ill. Infy, and the 8th and 18th Regts. Ind. Vols. And in that charge the brigade lost 700 men killed and wounded. Rufus was carried from the battlefield and sent to the hospital at Memphis, Tenn.; in August, same year, was sent to Alexander Barracks, St. Louis, Mo.; was there organized into the 85th Co. 2d Batt. Invalid Corps; sent thence to Scranton, Pa.; there did provost duty for nearly eighteen months; thence to Philadelphia, Pa., and was there discharged, July 5, 1865. Since his return to civil life, made one change - to Hooper Co., Mo.; lived there four years, returned, and settled down at his present residence. Mr. and Mrs. Birdsell are good members of the United Baptist Church.
BLACK, Samuel, Sr. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 23, P.O. Jacksonville; was born in Augusta County, Virginia, July 2, 1798; he moved to Kentucky with his parents in 1809; he was then eleven years old; came to Illinois in 1825, and settled in Sangamon County, and in 1828 came to Morgan County; he has lived on the same place ever since; was married Feb. 20, 1822, to Mildred Gaines, who was born in Charlotte County, Virginia, Oct. 4, 1802; they raised ten children, four sons and six daughters, three of whom are dead; Mr. Black is one of the pioneer settlers in Morgan, County; he is now in the 80th year of his age.
BLAKESLY, Edmund, wagon maker, and carp. Chapin, residence Sec. 11, rep. liberal, born in Cattaraugus Co., N.Y., Feb. 26, 1829. At the age of eight years his parents took him to Peoria Co., Ill.; left there in 1854, having lived there seventeen years; married Aug. 22, 1851, in village of Cambridge, Henry Co., Ill., to Olive Adelia Lake, born in Geauga Co., Ohio, Nov. 7, 1830. Have six children living: James O., born Aug. 22, 1854; Rolla E., born April 11, 1861; Ernest E., born Oct. 25, 1862; Helen I., born Aug. 7, 1865; Lewis W., born April 8, 1868; Emery J., born April 22, 1871; Charles A., born Oct. 9, 1852, died April 14, 1862; Ella M., born April 30, 1859, died Oct. 30, 1861. Mr. Blakesly left Peoria Co., going to Mason Co., in 1854; lived there until 1861. His father’s life was that of a regular pioneer, and he built his log hut of puncheon, so known to the early settlers, it was made of logs split by hand into what was then used instead of boards. His father’s name is Parley E., born in Onondaga Co., N.Y., Sept. 14, 1805; died July 17, 1870, in Mason Co. His wife was Anna M. Adams, born in Onondaga Co. He was robbed of $750, by a man whom they became acquainted with while journeying to Peoria Co.; having gained their confidence he stole the money out of their chest and left; although captured some time after, the identical money was by him exchanged during his absence, and no positive proof left to convict him. Then he settled in Peoria Co., and lived there most of his life; went to Quincy to enter land, and while there worked for his board while waiting for his turn to enter. Mr. Edmund Blakesly enlisted Feb. 7, 1865, in Co. I, 148th Ill. Inf.; was stationed in the Cumberland Mountains, Tenn., most of the time doing guard duty on the roads and railroads; was there at the time of Lincoln’s assassination; lived three years in Kansas; in 1874, he was there cleaned out by grasshoppers.
BLATTEL, John, butcher and farmer, Alexander, Sec. 15_8. Was born in Baden, Germany, Jan. 9, 1828; came to New Orleans in 1848; to St. Louis in 1849, and to this county and town in 1850. Through the war he shipped cattle for John T. Alexander and others four years; on one of his trips to Missouri after cattle, he was attacked by a party of bushwackers who searched him and cut his clothes to pieces for his money, and left him badly used up, with $2.50 and his revolver; he at the time had a large amount of money hidden in the lining of his saddle which they failed to find; was married to Ada Yehle in 1868; she was a native of Baden, Germany and came to this country and county in 1866.
BOBBITT, John G. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 7, P.O. Chapin. The subject of this sketch was born in Missouri, Nov. 6, 1824, and removed to this county with his parents at the early age of five years, thus having grown up as it were with the county, and one whose interests are closely identified with its growth and improvements. Married Dec. 14, 1848, to Martha J., daughter of Henry and Martha Newton, of McLean Co., Ill., born Oct. 21, 1827. This union has been blessed by three children: Lewis M., born Jan. 27, 1850; Mary L., born Aug. 3, 1852, now Mrs. Holliday, of Morgan Co.; Hattie E., born Jan. 15, 1864. Mr. Bobbitt’s description of his hunting excursions and the many events incident to the early settler’s life is highly amusing. In the fall previous to the “deep snow” his father erected a grist mill on Big Branch, now known as Willow Branch, which proved of immense service to the neighbors. Mr. B., had brought the burr stones from Missouri; the noticeable features of the mill were, it was only three weeks in course of erection, the running wheel and burr stones turned on the same shaft, and during the winter a young deer was caught in the mill, on which occasion Mr. B. facetiously remarked that his mill supplied his family with meat as well as flour and meal. Mr. Bobbitt has devoted his industries chiefly to agricultural pursuits; the homestead consists of 300 acres beautifully located, showing the able management of its owner on every hand.
BODDY, Michael, farmer and horticulturist, Sec. 18, P.O. Chapin; born in Yorkshire, England, Feb. 20, 1829, and came to this country and Morgan County, in 1851; returned to England, 1854, anticipating engaging in the Crimean War, but the war soon closing, engaged in mercantile pursuits, and remained about four years, again returning to this country, and settling in Morgan County; was married Dec. 31, 1854, to Ann, daughter of John and Mary Harrison, of Thornton, Yorks, England; born Jan. 22, 1834; this union has been blessed by nine children, viz: Mary Jane, born Nov. 11, 1856, died in early infancy; Robert, May 29, 1858, died Sept. 14, 1859; Mary, Oct. 11, 1863, died Sept. 11, 1864; Annie, May 24, 1865; Sarah H., March 23, 1868, and John R., Nov. 20, 1879; Mr. Boddy has occupied his present farm about eleven years; it was then in timber, but is now in a high state of cultivation, wrought by the industry and able management of its owner; he gives special attention to horticulture and vine growing, having several thousand of Concord and other choice varieties, from which he manufactures a very superior wine; he has also an orchard of considerable extent; Mr. Boddy was correspondent for the Jacksonville Sentinel, from Chapin, for several years, and has written many valuable contributions for the press, in prose and poetry.
BOLTON, James H. station express agent and post_master, Orleans, township 15_9; was born in Jennings County, Indiana, Feb. 17, 1831; came to Springfield, Illinois, in 1851, and worked for the Chicago & Alton R.R.; on the 10th of March, 1852 he assisted in putting in what is supposed to be the first railroad crossing in this State, that being the crossing at Springfield Junction of the Chicago & Alton R.R. and the Great Western R.R., now the Wabash R.R.; returned to Indiana in the Fall of 1852, and came to this county in 1863, and assumed the office of station and express agent at Orleans, which position he has filled since; married Selah J. Overman, Aug. 15, 1854; she was born in Bartholomew County, Indiana, in January 1837; have four children living; William M., Edward E., Emma Belle, and Lillie May; lost four children.
BONDS, John R., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 30, P.O. Franklin. The parents of Mr. Bonds were natives of Tennessee, where John was born on Oct. 10, 1848; the head of the family was engaged in the lumber regions of Tennessee for many years; when John was yet a child he moved to Kentucky; four years from that time found the family en route for the Western State of Illinois, in a two horse covered wagon; this was in 1858, when the tide of emigration was great; they settled in the vicinity of Franklin, Morgan County, where mr. Bonds Sr. turned his attention to agricultural pursuits which he has followed from the date of his settlement; himself and wife are sill living, now well along in years, but still hearty and vigorous; they raised a family of six children; Frank and James responded to Uncle Sam’s call for volunteers, and entered the army, falling victims to camp fever; Ira married Jane Smith; Mary C. married Eli N. Goddard, and on his death married Duane Nicholas; George, who married Miss Minerva Whitlock, and John, whose name heads this sketch, who united his fortunes to Miss Mary Briggs; in 1872, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Temperance Wheeler, daughter of Chaney Wheeler, an old resident of Morgan County, and native of Indiana.
BOSTON, C. C., farmer and stock dealer, Sec. 27, township 15-9, P.O. Orleans; was born in Cass Co. Jan. 1, 1854; came to this county in 1855; wife was Annie M. Wade; she was born in this State in 1854, and was married Feb. 25, 1875; have one child, Earl S., born Dec. 24, 1875.
BOULWARE, Geo. N., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 31, P.O. Franklin; Mr. Boulware was the seventh child of Philip P. and Nancy Boulware, whose maiden name was Wyatt; his father was a native of South Carolina, his mother was born in Kentucky; they became residents of the State of Missouri and from there wended their way to Illinois, in the year 1828; the trip was made by wagon, drawn by an ox team, Mrs. B. riding the entire distance on horseback; on arrival they settled on farm property in the vicinity of Franklin, the land now owned by the subject of this sketch; in many respects Philip P. was a remarkable man, possessed of strong energy and great force of character; during the War of 1812 he became engaged as a scout and ranger, distinguishing himself in that capacity, and remaining in the service one year; many incidents of his early career could be related of Mr. Boulware, did space permit; in a rude log cabin he procured his first start in life, enduring many hardships; in order to show the privation endured by the early settler, it may be well to state here that the logs entering into the construction of the cabin were sawed by Mr. B. with a whip-saw on the homestead; George, who heads this sketch, at the age of twenty-five was united in marriage to Miss Parmelia A. Wright, daughter of Jas. and Sarah Wright; George had a fair start in life from his father; he was deeded a small farm, which decided his future success; by dint of hard work and skillful management he now owns 220 acres of valuable property; six children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. B., four of whom are living: May R., Sallie W., George P., and Maggie O.
BOURLAND, P. G. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 35, P.O. Franklin. Mr. Bourland was born in Kentucky, Aug. 31, 1827; Miles Bourland the father, by occupation was a farmer; thinking to better his fortune, in the Winter of 1830 he set out for Illinois, traversing the entire distance by wagon; below St. Louis the emigrants crossed the river on the ice; in the spring of the year they settled on the broad plains of Illinois, about two miles southwest of Franklin; they first took up their abode in a log cabin, and immediately began to clear away the timber; the following winter, the deep snow set in which caused much suffering; at the tender age of six years, young Bourland attended a subscription school, held in a log cabin, where the seats were low and awkwardly constructed, and which required considerable agility on the part of the scholars to balance themselves upon; at twenty_seven Mr. Bourland married Miss Nancy Ramsey of Ohio; two children blessed this union: Leah and Katie. Mrs. Bourland died, and was buried in the cemetery, at Franklin; during the Spring of 1863 he married Susan Seymour, six children were born of this marriage, four of whom are living; two dying in early infancy; for two terms Mr. B. became a school teacher, and during the Mormon uprising took an active part.
BOURN, James, farmer, Sec. 27, P.O. Jacksonville; born in Worcestershire, England, March 11, 1838; emigrated to Canada in 1857, and lived there till 1859, then came to Morgan County; first settled in Jacksonville, and lived there till 1859, then came to Morgan County; first settled in Jacksonville, and lived there three years; he then purchased the farm where he now lives; was married to Mary Ann Richards, in Jacksonville, Dec. 28, 1861, who was born in London, England, May 10, 1841; she came to America in 1857; their children are: James H., born Aug. 1, 1863, and died Nov. 27, 1864; George E., born Jan. 27, 1866; Amelia H., Sept. 12, 1873; owns farm of 120 acres; has served four terms as school director, is also clerk of the Board.
BOWN, John, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 26, P.O. Jacksonville; he was born in Somersetshire, Eng., about the year 1826; emigrated to America in 1868, and settled in Morgan Co.; he married Grace Bown (his cousin); she was born in Somersetshire, Eng., about the year 1828; there are Charles J., Rosanna, Emily, John, James; owns 180 acres of land.
BOYER, Abbie, Mrs. Widow of Elisha Boyer, an early settler in Morgan Co., who on arrival became a partner of Lewis Hatfield, and afterward with John Mathers, for a number of years in brick making; he was very successful; manufactured the brick for the Methodist Church, Behren College, first Blind Asylum, also the residence of M. P. Ayres; was a resident of Jacksonville over thirty years; a member of Illini Lodge, No. 4, I.O.O.F., also of Grand Lodge of the State. He was born in Stocks Co., North Carolina, in 1823; in 1873 Mr. Boyer lived at Little Rock, Ark., the family having moved there on account of Mr. Boyer’s health. Mrs. Boyer, in 1877, located at Woodson; she was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1836. Children; Anna, Abbie, Cynthia, Lizzie, Emma, Jodie, Ruth, Lillie; Ollie, deceased.
BOYER, Thompson, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 11, P.O. Pisgah. Over half a century ago, in the year 1820, the parents of Mr. Boyer settled in Morgan Co., near the present farm residence of Judge Wood, entered a homestead of government land, and erected thereon a log cabin of the usual description. In that rude structure young Boyer first saw the light, in November, 1825. For a number of years the family lived comfortable here; before the deep snow set in, moved into a hewn log building, where the old people lived for many years, and in Morgan Co. passed the remainder of their days. The date of the mother’s death is uncertain, but is supposed to be in 1842; and the father (Jacob) died in the Spring of the present year, 1878. There are now living five children: John, a blacksmith by trade, a resident of Missouri; Thompson, and Washington, who are residents of California; James resides on the Boyer estate; Thompson married Miss Sophronie Luttrell, daughter of Lot and Susan Luttrell, who were raised in Kentucky, there married, and removed to Illinois in an early day. Mr. Luttrell acquired a fine property, and was universally respected by all in the community where he lived; he died in 1862, after a long life of usefulness. The wife still survives, living with the subject of this sketch. The union of Mr. Boyer with Miss Luttrell was blessed with five children: Henry, Mary Jane, James W., George W., and Charles M.
BOWYER, Jacob, during his life was a leading farmer of Morgan County, who emigrated from Kentucky to Madison County, Ill., as early as 1816 and settled in Morgan County two years later; shortly after his arrival in Illinois, he united his fortunes with Miss Elizabeth Samples, and after his marriage settled on what is now known as the Bowyer estate; at that date there were no counties, and it will be remembered the State itself had not been admitted into the Union until that year. There, building a log cabin, they passed many years of their lives; gradually emigrants came to the county, and towns and cities sprang up as if by magic; during the early settlement it was no uncommon occurrence to go to St. Louis, and there lay in a stock of groceries, and go to mill, the distance being 90 miles; settlers would take turns in going, so as not to interfere more than was possible in the work of the farm; the capital of Mr. Bowyer could then be easily carried; but his wants were few and easily supplied; as the years went by, he acquired by dint of hard labor and self-denial, a fine property; about the year 1834 Mrs. Bowyer died, leaving to the care of her husband four children: Thomas B., John B., Washington and James; some years after he married Millie G. Masters, they lived together fourteen years, when the second wife taking ill with fever, also died, leaving one child; in 1864 he married Mrs. Judith Davis of Morgan County, whose former husband set out for Cumberland, Tenn., as he never returned it is supposed he was murdered; by her first marriage Mrs. Bowyer had three children: Elleanor, Elizabeth, and Amanda; James, the youngest by first marriage, now living on the old homestead, is the owner of 149 acres, he married Emily Spaenhower, of Morgan County; three children: Sarah E., William T., and Mary Jane.
BOWYER, William, deceased. As we look about us at the present day, witnessing the vast changes that have taken place in the county, how little do we think of the hardships endured by the pioneer, to bring it to its present stage of prosperity. In 1833, when but few white covered wagons traveled westward, Wm. Bowyer, accompanied by his wife and three children, set out for Illinois, not knowing what fare he should find or hardships would in after years fall to his lot. Traveling with an ox team, at the end of six weeks he located in Morgan County, as a permanent resident, in the vicinity of Waverly; two years prior to this he had visited the county. On the farm now occupied by Matt Kennedy, he built the usual log cabin. At times it became extremely difficult to adapt themselves to their rude western home; arriving without a dollar, Mr. Bowyer procured the necessaries of life by barter. Did the early settler become unfortunate, willing hands were always ready to assist. Like nearly all the early settlers, in due process of time he became the owner of a comfortable estate. He died in the Autumn of 1849; the property reverted to his wife. This sketch would be incomplete were we to omit the many good qualities of Mr. Bowyer; his kindness of heart was well known, and no man in need was ever turned away from his door; when he died the county lost one of its most useful citizens. His wife survived him many years, and passed off the stage of life in 1873; her death was universally regretted. The estate is now divided among his children; John died in 1848; James was killed at the battle of Dallas, in 1863; Joseph and George reside in Morgan County; Joseph owns 130 acres; March 15, 1855, he married Miss Malinda Jones, daughter of Robert Jones, one of the first settlers of Morgan County; seven children blessed this union, six now living: Charles, John, Lou, Ida, Jessie, and Adda. Mr. Bowyer was born in Adair County, Kentucky, Dec. 15, 1832.
BRACKENBURY, Oscar, was born in Pike Co., Ill., in 1854; followed farming for several years; came to Meredosia in 1875, and learned the carpenter trade with his father, who still lives in this place; has two brothers and two sisters: Charles, George W., Emma, and Mary Jane. Charles was married in 1876 to Miss Lizzie Reid. His father was born on Long Island Sound, New York; came to Meredosia in 1875.
BRADLEY, G. W. physician and surgeon, Waverly. Is a son of R.D. Bradley, of Johnson Co., Mo., where he was born June 25, 1838. Was educated at the Masonic College, Lexington, Mo. He is a graduate of the Louisville Medical College. He went to Texas in the Spring of 1861, where he was married to Miss R.A. Deatherage, at the residence of Wm. Maddox, June 16, 1863. She was born in Waverly, Sept. 5, 1839, and is a daughter of J.G. Deatherage, of this neighborhood. The Doctor came to Waverly in 1866. They have two children, namely: Milton Maddox, born March 24, 1864, and George Richard, born Nov. 1869.
BRANOM, A. J. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 8, P.O. Waverly. Mr. Branom was born in Tennessee, August, 1830. His father Richard Branom, was a native of Stokes Co., North Carolina, and was a soldier during the war of 1812. He was married in Virginia, where he afterward removed, to Miss Ella Lawrence, a native of Maryland. By this marriage four children: James W., Mary Ann, John, and A.J. In 1852, the family moved to Bond Co., Ill., where the old folks remained but a short time, when they removed to Kentucky. A.J., who heads this sketch, was united in marriage to Miss Martha Arnett, a daughter of John and Lorenzo Arnett. By this marriage twelve children, eleven of whom are living: Jas. W., Sarah C., Martha M., John D., Andrew J., Mary E., Alice, Charles H., Newton A., Minnie Belle, and Hattie Benton.
BREWER, H. D., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. I, P.O. Franklin. His father, Jessie H., was a farmer during the greater portion of his life; who married Miss Nancy Grisman. The subject of this notice was born in Christian Co., Ky., June 2, 1818; having the hard work of the farm to attend to, he never received but six weeks’ schooling; in his fourteenth year he became apprenticed to the trade of coppersmith; this not being conducive to health, he learned the trade of tinner. Realizing the importance of an education, he applied himself at night learning to read, write and cypher. In his twenty-seventy year he married Miss Mary Steel; in 1831 he came to Waverly, Morgan Co., where he kept, for many years, a hardware and tin shop; in 1833, first bought land, now owns 128 acres; twelve children, eleven of whom are living.
BRIDGEMAN, Hezekiah, retired farmer, Concord. Was born in Withe Co., Va., Jan. 18, 1797. Married there Aug. 4, 1820, to Miss Jane Brown, born same place, Jan. 16, 1797; had nine children; lost two - Franklin, born March 3, 1822; Mary, Aug. 29, 1823; Martin, Nov. 6, 1825; John, Aug. 27, 1827; James, June 3, 1829; Isaac, May 20, 1831; Rhoda, July 4, 1834; William, July 18, 1836; died July 14, 1839; his wife died Feb. 26, 1847; married again to Miss Leah Deaton, born in Va.; had two children, living: Martha, born March 10, 1851, and Eliza, April 14, ’53; his second wife died April 21, 1853; married again to Mrs. Nancy Brown born in Withe Co., Va., March 10, 1802; no children by her; she had eleven children by her first husband, four living now - James Washington Brown, born Nov. 23, 1824; Andrew Jackson Brown, Jan. 30, 1830; Napoleon B. Brown, Oct. 21, 1833; Mary Brown, March 19, 1838, now Mrs. P. Kiser. He came to this county in the Fall of 1830 with a team and $14 in money - a poor man, and by hard work at farming and prudent management has become independent. He quit farming twenty years ago, settling down in Concord, living on the interest of his money. Though 81 years old, his memory of early days is vivid; there is no man in his neighborhood who appreciates a joke and laugh as much as “Uncle Kiah;” his conversation is pointed, racy, and interesting, bristling with anecdotes of early days. The genuine interest he takes in the welfare of those surrounding him, and the public spirit he shows in affairs concerning Concord and the neighborhood, have given him the name of “Uncle Kiah” far and wide.
BRIDGEMAN, John, deceased, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 10, P.O. Arenzville, Cass Co. Born in Virginia, Aug. 27, 1827; married June 28, 1855; have one son living: Henry A., born on this farm, June 19, 1857; married July 18, 1875, and have one child: John William, born Sept. 20, 1876. Mr. John Bridgeman was one of the county’s earliest settlers; his death happened some thirteen years ago. He once held the office of constable. Mrs. John Bridgeman’s father is Aaron Henderson, born in Virginia, and married a Miss Sarah Bowles, also born in Virginia. Mrs. J. Bridgeman owns 265 acres of good land, value about $10,600.
BRIDGEMAN, William H., farmer, Sec. 12, P.O. Arenzville; dem.; lib.; born in Morgan Co., Sept. 15, 1852; married Feb. 11, 1874, to Louisa Dunn, born in Cass Co., Ill., March 6, 1854. They have two children: Ida Matilda, born May 18, 1876; Laura, Aug. 24, 1877. His father, Franklin B., was born in Virginia. His grandfather, Hezekiah B., is now living in the Village of Concord, Ill. Mr. W. H. B. is now starting into farming on the primitive plan, having a cabin in the woods, and living in the good old plan of early beginners. At present he farms only 20 acres. His cabin is in what is termed the Bluffs in this township.
BRITTENSTINE, Fredrick, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 7, P.O. Youngblood, the subject of this sketch, was born in Sweden, June 15, 1827; his father was, by trade, a shoemaker, died in the early infancy of Fredrick, as did also his mother. He early became apprenticed to the trade of a silk-weaver, and in after years turned his attention to farming. In 1848 he crossed the broad waters of the Atlantic for the shores of America. In those days as sailing vessels were a slow means of navigation, the voyage was prolonged for some months. Arriving in New Orleans, from there he made his way to St. Louis, thence to Jacksonville, Ill., settling on Indian Creek; he followed agricultural pursuits; he married in 1849, Miss Eliza Newwman; by this marriage eight children, five of whom are living: John, born 1850; Ann, born February, 1859; Joseph B., born 1860; Frederick, born 1863; Nancy, born 1867/ In connection with farming Mr. Brittenstine is doing a general blacksmithing business, and is ready and willing at all times to do good work at low rates, respectfully soliciting the patronage of his many friends and the farming community generally. He can be found at the little blacksmith shop around the corner near his residence.
BROWN, Caroline A. (SPRINGER) farming, Sec. 24, P.O. Jacksonville, was the daughter of Charles Springer, and widow of Bedford Brown, a native of Kentucky, where Mrs. Brown was born Sept. 28, 1805; at seventeen was united in marriage to Bedford Brown. For many years her husband followed the occupation of carpenter. In 1828, the family, then consisting of husband, wife, and three children, moved to Jacksonville, Morgan Co.; on arrival husband entered 600 acres of land, but worked at trade a number of years. In 1830 he moved on to his farm property. Becoming very successful, he accumulated wealth. May 26, 1873, he passed peacefully away. In his death the county lost one of its most upright and honorable citizens.
BROWN, Ezekiel, farmer, P.O. Franklin. Mr. Brown was born in Morgan Co., Nov. 1838, where his father, John Brown, settled as early as 1827, when but few houses of any kind were erected in the county; settling in the vicinity of Franklin, he rented the property now owned by Jas. Rawlings, where he has lived since his arrival in the State, and no doubt the many important changes that have crept over the West, seem a matter of surprise to one who lived in a day when a horse could carry double; far different from today, when it sometimes takes a large carriage for a small young man. The wife of John died many years ago. Ezekiel was the sixth child; liberally educated, in 1862 he entered the army, enlisting in Co. G, 71st Ill. Inf. For three months, remaining five; honorably discharged. He then enlisted in Co. E, 58th Ill. Inf. For one year, and became engaged in the siege of Mobile, etc., etc.; honorably discharged April, 1865. Autumn of 1873 Mr. Brown was elected constable.
BROWN, James M. was born in Tennessee, May 22, 1825; married Oct. 6, 1847, to Miss Sarah Ann Buxton; had six children: James Franklin, Felix G., Sarah Abigail, George P., Mary Jane, and Charles Oscar, dead. He is one of the oldest settlers in this township; his parents moved here in 1830. In 1831 his father was killed in digging a well; his mother married again, making the home uncongenial to him; he faced the world alone when 18 years old, and is today among the wealthy farmers of this county. In 1857 he bought his present place. Politically he is a staunch Democrat.
BROWN, James N. States Atty., office Court House, r W. State w West; was born in Cooper Co., Mo., May 25th, 1852; came to this county in 1861. Studied with Brown & Epler, and was admitted to practice in Jan., 1874; in April ’74, he was nominated on the Democratic ticket, for City Atty., and elected. Received the nomination as State’s Atty., at the general election, in 1876, and was elected. In connection with this office, Mr. B. does a general law business.
BROWN, Thomas C. farmer and breeder of short-horn cattle and fine sheep. The subject of this sketch was the youngest of a family of ten children; he was born near the city of York, England, in the year 1816. Remaining on his father’s farm up to the age of thirty, he married Elizabeth Wilson, daughter of John Wilson, who was by occupation a carpenter and joiner. Taking passage on board a sailing vessel, in 1846, he arrived in New Orleans after a voyage of several weeks; remaining a short time there, then made his way to what was then the far western State of Illinois; he first settled at Indian Creek, in Morgan Co., renting land for two years there; he then removed to the farm he now owns; at this date he would often go twenty miles to a horse-mill, where grain was ground for early settlers; he relates that there then stood an old water-mill on Indian Creek, perhaps the only one in the county at that time; on the Mauvaisterre, also, a horse-mill was erected, where the settlers would go to get their grist ground; the would sometimes remain two or three days, amusing themselves while there pitching quoits, and other like diversions. After many years of hard labor, he became the owner of 270 acres of as choice land as can be found any where, and as a farmer is a success, doing his work systematically and energetically. Coming to America with no capital, it is to his credit that he has succeeded so well in life. One child, Charles W. born April 2, 1850.
BRUNK, J. T. livery and feed stable, Franklin; son of Jesse and Naomi, natives of Kentucky and Maryland, respectively. Mr. B. was born in the year 1829, in Kentucky; his parents moved there at an early day, and in 1831 removed to Morgan Co., arriving there during the winter of the deep snow; shortly after his arrival the head of the family purchased land, in due course of time, and became a very successful farmer. The subject of this sketch was educated in subscription schools, attending the school presided over by Manual Metcalf; before coming of age he became a farmer; at nineteen married Martha Depledge, daughter of Jonathan Depledge, and by her had three children: Mary N., Jonathan, and J.T. Mrs. Brunk passed off the stage of life some years ago. In 1859 he married Evelyn Jolly, daughter of Eliza Jolly, of Franklin; by last marriage four children: Elisha E., Charles E., Nettie A. and William C. Mr. Brunk first went into business at Orleans Station, Morgan Co.; in Franklin was a grocer for a number of years; in 1876 opened a livery stable _ the only one in town. Mr. B. is above the average height, attaining the stature of six feet and seven inches.
BRYANT, Alpheus, farmer, Sec. 19, P.O. Meredosia; greenback party, formerly republican; liberal in religion. Born April 11, 1812, in Middlebury, Addison Co., Vt.; left there about 1847; occupation at this time farming; then went to Worcester, Mass., and engaged in the trade of making iron work on cotton machines; after eighteen months service he got $2.25 a day. It was always supposed he had worked at this trade before, he succeeded so well. Worked here five years. In 1852 he farmed in different counties in New York; then went to Wisconsin, and then, in 1860, came to this county, married, May 26, 1861, Hannah Weeks, widow of Washington Weeks, born at Laurel Hill (place of Braddock’s defeat), Pennsylvania. Her family name is Mansfield; first married to Orvil Bushnel, then to Washington Weeks; at the age of two years she went to Ohio with her parents; left there at nineteen years of age, coming to Indiana, thence to this county in 1831, summer after “big snow;” has five children living: William Weeks, born Feb. 4, 1842; Orvil Bushnel, born in 1837, died in the war of the Rebellion, from wounds received during service; John L. Weeks, born Dec. 1, 1847; George W. Weeks, Nov. 4, 1850; Thomas J. Weeks, Jan. 14, 1853; Benj. Franklin Weeks, Nov. 8, 1853. Mr. B. owns 120 acres, value $50 an acre, and 40 acres in Cass Co., swamp land.
BRYANT, J. W., Dr. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 36, P.O. Waverly. Dr. Bryant, who is cotemporary with the early settlement of this county, was the eldest child of William W. and Isabel Bryant, whose maiden name was Rankin. William Bryant was a native of Virginia, by trade a mechanic, who married the lady mentioned in Tennessee, where he removed in an early day. His skill in mechanics was somewhat remarkable, and it is related of him that very few, if any, excelled him as a mechanic. The subject of this sketch was born on the 23d of December, 1828. Six years later, the family set out for Illinois, and settled in what was then the old fashioned village of Jacksonville, where he afterward died. His wife survived him some five years. After the death of his father, Dr. Bryant worked by the month for neighboring farmers. During the Mexican war, he became enrolled as a volunteer in Co. D., 1st Regt. Remaining one year in the service, and on the field during the engagement of Buena Vista. Honorably discharged before the close of the war, he returned to Morgan Co., where he began the study of medicine, and in time became a practicing physician. He married in 1860 Miss Sarah Huckstep, a daughter of Thomas Huckstep, an old resident of this county. In 1874 Mrs. Bryant departed this life, leaving to her husband’s care eight children: Charles C., Steven G., Martha E., James O., Thomas E., Kate L., Jessie and Adian Irving. On the 10th of August, 1876, Dr. Bryant married Mrs. Susan Wilder, relict of Franklin Wilder. To use a common phrase, Mr. Bryant has seen many of the ups and downs of life; at one time a merchant, and at another the proprietor of a grist_mill. Of later years his time has been occupied tilling the soil.
BUCHANAN, William, farmer and stock_raiser, Sec. 19, P.O. Waverly. Mr. Buchanan was born on the old homestead of his parents, Benjamin and Mary Buchanan, July, 1844.
BUCK, Joseph M. livery, feed, and sale stables, State street, Waverly, Ill. (Successor to C.M. Scott, deceased.) Was born Nov. 20, 1850; until recently was engaged in farming, in Macoupin County. Keeps constantly on hand double and single rigs. Horses boarded and cared for on reasonable terms.
BUCK, Thomas, farmer, Sec. 9, P.O. Jacksonville; born March 14, 1846, in Greene County; removed to this county 1874; married March, 1865, to Matilda Jane, daughter of James and Betsy Young, of Greene County; four children were born of this union: first one died in early infancy; Charles L., born Jan. 14, 1867; William Jasper, Feb. 11, 1871, and Julia May, Nov., 1873, died Dec. 18, 1876; Mrs. Buck died March 15, 1876; Mr. B. married again, Feb. 13, 1877, to Elizabeth Brayes, widow of William Brayes; was born March 10, 1846, and has one daughter, Annie, born June 23, 1872; the result of the present union is two children (twins), born Feb. 13, 1878; Mrs. Buck’s grandmother, Mrs. Milly Holliday, is one of the oldest living settlers in this neighborhood, having come here in 1823; she relates many interesting incidents of the early settlement.
BUCKTHORPE, Robert, clothing merchant State e Square, r East nr Kentucky. The above named gentleman has been a resident of Jacksonville over twenty years, and during that time has been engaged as a merchant tailor. Being a superior workman, as the years rolled by his trade rapidly increased, and to_day Mr. Buckthorpe takes a leading position among the merchant tailors of Jacksonville, owning the building he occupies, and, having no rent to pay, buying the best goods from the leading houses in New York, Boston, and Chicago and England, styles and prices will compare favorably with any similar establishment in Jacksonville, or the West. He was born in London, England, Aug. 1842; at the early age of fourteen he was apprenticed to the trade of tailor, serving seven years. In 1858 he accompanied his employer to America and settled in Jacksonville, where Mr. Cocking for whom he had worked so many years, opened a tailoring establishment, where Mr. B. worked as a journeyman for many years, in time securing an interest, eventually he became the sole partner. In 1869 he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy N. Reynolds, of Pike County. Three children blessed this union, two of whom are living - Thomas and Robert.
BURBANK, Edwin S. farmer, Sec. 27, P.O. Concord. Was born in Mass., Aug. 16 1825. He came to Cass Co. in 1853; married in Beardstown, March 31, 1853, to Miss Caroline Shaw, born in Maine, Jan. 22, 1822; had five children: Howard D., born Dec. 27, 1853; Carrie M., March 12, 1855; Frank E., Feb. 27, 1857; Ida May, Sept. 27, 1859; Sarah Jane, May 6, 1860. His wife, at Mrs. Leonard’s house, at Concord, Aug. 31, 1873, was burned fatally by a spark from the stove setting her dress on fire before help could be rendered. She died there on Sept. 16, 1873. Married again April 5, 1876 in St. Louis, to Miss Ada St. John De Haven, who was born in Beardstown, June 24, 1854; has one child by her: Arthur W., born Aug. 23, 1877. The present Mrs. B. is a niece of Lieut. Edwin DeHaven, commanding the original Arctic Expedition, in Which Dr. Kane was surgeon, but getting snow blinded after his first voyage, he retired, and died in Philadelphia, Dr. Kane getting all the credit. Mr. Burbank enlisted in the 101st Regiment, Co. B, and was with his regiment through the entire war. In ’64 he received a sunstroke, after which he was a great portion of the time in commissary department. Joseph Shaw, Mr. Burbank’s father_in_law, was born in Maine, Jan. 21, 1794; he came to this county in 1830, and died in 1867. His father, Dana Burbank, born in Mass., Jan. 18, 1796, manufactured paper in his native State, came to Scott Co. in 1868, and died May 6, 1876.
BURCH, Benjamin, farmer and stock raiser Sec. 5, P.O. Franklin. Mr. Burch was born in Pike Co. Ill., January, 1833, where he remained up to his twenty-fourth year, when his parents removed to Morgan County, having first settled there in 1826. John W. Burch, the father of Benjamin, was born in Georgia, and raised in Kentucky; he there married Miss Margaret Lappington. A tanner by trade, Mr. Burch entered the employ of J. C. Caldwell, on his arrival in Morgan County; he was, however, as elsewhere stated a resident of Pike County; prior to this he was the proprietor of a tannery. Removing to the State of Georgia, he there started a tannery, which proved successful; he died in Hamburgh, Georgia; his wife died many years previous to his demise. Ten children blessed this union; eight are living. Benjamin, the oldest child, with little exception, has passed his life in Morgan County. In May, 1861, he enlisted in Co. I, Fourteenth Ill. Infantry; battles Vicksburg, Shiloh, Natchez, Moon Station, and others; was promoted orderly sergeant for meritorious conduct; taken prisoner by the rebels, eh was incarcerated at Andersonville; he remained many months, suffering innumerable hardships; honorably discharged from the army, he returned to Morgan County, in 1866. He married Miss Elizabeth Jones, a daughter of Robert Jones; seven children, six living: Antoinette, Beulah, Eulah, Ellalee, Ellsworth, and Howard Shelby.
BURCH, John B., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 1, P.O. Franklin. In tracing the genealogy of families in this county, as but few items have been preserved in writing, information in relation to families is mostly taken from memory. Shelby Burch, father of John B., was a native of Kentucky; but little is known of his early life. At an early date he removed with his parents to Illinois, locating in the vicinity of Franklin, where he afterward married Miss Sarah Wyatt, daughter of John Wyatt and sister to Col. W. J. Wyatt. By this marriage two children: Mary, who married H. C. Woods, now resides in Virden, Macoupin Co., Ill., and John B. Mr. Burch died while in early manhood Aug. 26, 1846. Mrs. Burch afterward married Francis M. Scott, and now resides in Franklin. Oct. 1, 1868, John married Miss Helen Rice, daughter of W. W. Rice, of Waverly. One child, Freddie, born June 13, 1873; owns a farm comprising 150 acres; for seven years has been township assessor, which office he now holds.
BURNETT, Isham, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 29, P.O. Franklin. In recounting the early experiences of the pioneers who hewed their way through to the far West, may well be mentioned, contemporary with the early settlers, the gentleman who stands at the head of this page. He was the oldest son of Rolland and Polly Burnett, natives of Virginia, who settled in Kentucky in an early day. In Virginia Rolland Burnett was a planter, at one time quite wealthy; on arriving in Kentucky he became a farmer and trader; on the homestead two of his children were born, Isham and Richard; Isham, at nineteen, married Miss Lucinda VanWinkle; in his 25th year, date July 14, 1831, in company with James B., a brother, Jason VanWinkle, and others he followed the trail of the old pioneers, westward; at the end of twenty-seven days travel, he located in Morgan County. Following the fortunes of Mr. Burnett, we find that he entered a tract of 182 acres; the first year he built a log cabin of the usual description, where one window graced the rude dwelling place; taking it all in all, it was a fair sample of settlers’ early habitation; the prospect was rather discouraging, and many turned backward to the comfortable homes in the South and East; at times it became a difficult matter to keep from freezing; on awakening in the morning, it often became necessary to clear away the snow that had gathered on the bed; as the bed usually lay on the floor, the covering frequently became frozen to the puncheon. Never, perhaps, was game more abundant as far as the eye could reach was a broad expanse of prairie, over which bounded the deer and other wild animals. During the winter of the deep snow, small parties would start out in pursuit of them, which, on breaking through the crust, would fall easy victims of the hunter. Despite the hardships incident to pioneer life, the people enjoyed themselves fully; their wants were few, and easily satisfied; their kindness of heart and generosity unbounded. Money was an unknown commodity, generally speaking; coon skins were frequently bartered in trade, and often fell to the lot of the pioneer minister, who often wanted for the necessaries of life. From the small acreage came an estate of over a thousand acres, acquired by an industry and perseverance that would have discouraged ninety-nine persons in a hundred. Witnessing the growth of the county year by year, few have contributed more to its present prosperity; during his early settlement he came in contact with such early settlers as James Langley, Joel Gilleland, J. T. Holmes, Newton Cloud, Judge Samuel Wood, and others, now prominent in the offices of the county. Mr. Burnett raised a family of nine children; there are now living: Moses, James, George, Joseph, Micajah, Rolland, and Charity. Having lost his first wife he was married the second time on January 27, 1866, to Mrs. Patrick, whose husband had died in the service of the United States, leaving to her care two children - one now living, Sarah, who married James G. England.
BURNETT, Joseph, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 22, P.O. Waverly. The gentleman who heads this sketch was born in Morgan County, on the 9th of July, 1838; he received the usual education of the pioneer boy, in an old log cabin, long since gone to decay; here he perused the few simple studies that started the boys on the pathway of knowledge. When the nation witnessed the downfall of Fort Sumpter, Mr. Burnett enlisted in Company I, 14th Illinois Infantry, for three years service; mustered at Jacksonville; became a participant in the battle of Shiloh, and also many other smaller engagements of the war; at the expiration of twelve months he was honorably discharged; returning to Morgan County, he then turned his attention to farming. In 1863, he married Miss Jennie Massie; two children, Lillie and Willie; in 1876 Mrs. Burnett passed off the stage of life; on 5th of April 1867, he married Miss Ellen Hamilton, daughter of James Hamilton; one child, Elsie; Mr. Burnett owns 160 acres of land, formerly owned 240.
BURNETT, Micajah, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 29, P.O. Waverly. To trace the successive improvements of a county, to follow the fortunes of hundreds in a biographical sketch, is at times a perplexing task. Mr. Burnett was born in Morgan Co., on the old homestead of his father, Isham Burnett. On this farm he performed a great deal of hard work; he received his education at district school. When the Stars and Stripes were flung to the breeze, and the call came for troops, at the early age of nineteen Mr. Burnett enlisted at Jacksonville, in 1861, in the first regiment organized, being the 14th Ill. Vols., Co. I., mustered into the service at Jacksonville; shortly afterward went to the front; took an active part in the battles of Fort Henry, Pittsburg Landing, Vicksburg, Wahachee, and some smaller engagements; honorably discharged at Huntsville, Ala.; mustered out at Springfield, ill.; returned to Morgan Co. Shortly after married Miss Sarah M. Marston, daughter of Jefferson Marston, an early settler of Morgan Co.; four children, Isham S., Ida L., Felix E., and Edith D. Mr. Burnett owns an estate of 70 acres of well-improved land.
BURNETT, Moses, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 29, P.O. Waverly. The subject of this sketch is the ninth child of Isham Burnett, whose name is elsewhere recorded. He was born in Morgan Co., Nov. 25, 1838, on the old homestead, where he passed man years of his life. Those born amid the surroundings of pioneer life necessarily imbibe that spirit of independence peculiar to the western pioneer. In the stirring scenes of early life he formed the acquaintance of some of the most energetic western people, and it is not surprising that the associations thus formed led to success. During the Spring fo 1864 he married Miss Mathilda Drew; seven children - six now living: Charles L., Lee, Lena, Laura, Lulu, and in infant child. In 1861, Mr. Burnett enlisted in the 14th Regt. Ill. Vols.; In the Spring of 1862, on account of ill health, was honorably discharged, and returned to Morgan Co.; is now living on his farm comprising 70 acres.
BURNETT, Richard B., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 32, P.O. Waverly. Fifty years ago but few improvements were manifest in the State of Illinois. Among the early settlers came Roland Burnett, a native of Kentucky, who raised a family of nine children. Richard B. whose name heads this sketch, when old enough attended the subscription schools when the duties of the farm would permit. He was endowed with a strong, energetic disposition that made the quiet home life irksome to the young man, and accordingly, at the early age of nineteen, his thoughts turned from the scenes of his youth, and with a light heart and lighter pockets, in the Winter of 1848, he set out for Missouri. On his arrival, he turned his attention to farming; the same year he married Miss Polly Brammer. For years he remained in Missouri, and then, accompanied by his family, he set out for Illinois, where he remained five years; moving back to Missouri, he remained ten years; once again he moved to Illinois, settling in the vicinity of Waverly, Morgan Co. He purchased 120 acres, and at one time owned 280 acres; five children living: Lucy, Nancy, Lucinda, Lizzie, Isham, and Martha.
BURNETT, Roland, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 33, P.O. Waverly. Mr. Burnett was born April 30, 1835. On the old homestead of his father, Isham Burnett, surrounded by the influences of pioneer life, he grew to manhood, attending the subscription schools in the winter season, and during the summer his time was employed on the farm, from the time he could handle the ax or hold the plow. During the war he became a contractor, supplying the boys in blue with clothing and provisions; for four years he followed the movements of the army. At its close, owing to a general credit system, with pockets depleted, he returned to Morgan Co., and settled down to the pursuits that he had been accustomed to from boyhood. Purchasing an estate of 160 acres, as years rolled by he added to this, and now owns farm property comprising 320 acres. Sept. 12, 1877, he married Miss Louetta Hamilton, daughter of H. C. and Rosella Hamilton.
BURNS, Harvey M. farmer and stock raiser Sec. 22 P.O. Waverly. Mr. Burns was the second child of Wm. And Martha Burns, who were natives of South Carolina, and who removed to Georgia in an early day, where young Burns was born, in 1845. During his early infancy his parents removed to South Carolina, where Harvey grew to manhood. When the war came on he enlisted in the Second Carolina Cavalry, remaining in the service sixteen months; he became a participant in many battles. Returning to South Carolina after the close of the war, he remained but a short time, when he came to Illinois, settling in Morgan County, where he first worked by the month for farmers; in 1872, he married Miss Mary E. Hart, a daughter of Henry P. and Catherine Hart, whose maiden name was Major; three children: Thos. W. born Dec. 1872, Merta Bella born 1874, Melcina born 1876. Mr. Burns owns a comfortable property, consisting of 114 acres, on which he resides at the present writing.
BUSEY, Samuel, farmer, Sec. 29, P.O. Woodson, son of Daniel and Elizabeth, early pioneers of Morgan Co., who came here in 1828. On his father’s farm, near Jacksonville, young Samuel was born Jan. 26, 1840; his education, though acquired in district schools, was quite liberal for the time. In 1865 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ely, daughter of Dennis and Catherine. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. E, 70th Ill. Inft., at Jacksonville, and mustered into the service at Springfield, Ill.; after five months spent in the service of the U.S. he was honorably discharged at Alton, Ill.; and returning to Morgan Co. March 12, 1865, he united with the Baptist Church; in 1866, licensed as a minister, and in 1871 he was regularly ordained; his field of labor lying in Morgan Co. Children: Mary, Charles, and Eva; two deceased, Etta and infant child.
BUTLER, Thos. , farmer and stock raiser, Secs. 21 and 22, P.O. Woodson. Mr. Butler was born in Cheshire, England, June, 1832; resided in England twenty_five years; education was received there in parochial schools; emigrated to America in June, 1858, and located in Morgan Co., Ill., at Lynnville township, and first worked by the month. While in England he was married to Miss Sarah Filkin. In 1853 purchased eighty acres in 16_13; in 1856 bought eighty acres in 14_10; in 1874 purchased one hundred and sixty in 14_10, total number acres, 340. Seven children; Samuel L., born Oct. 18, 1861; Wm. R., Oct. 5, 1863; Chas. E., May 24, 1865; Thos. H., April 18, 1867; Beatrice E., March 19, 1869; John Simpson, Oct. 19, 1870; Edna G., March 23, 1872.