This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Hansel Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1446 Message Board Post: Hansel, Jacob – There are no more substantial or reliable men in the United States than those who have come from Germany and have developed into American citizens. Bringing with them the sturdy characteristics of their Fatherland, they have appreciated and benefited by the advantages here offered and become prosperous and representative. One of the men of this type, who, after years of honorable toil, is now enjoying the fruits of his labor, is Jacob Hansel of Aux Sable Township. He was born at Baden, Germany, May 17, 1831, and after losing his parents in 1852, with his sister Sarah, came to the United States. Passing through Chicago, he went on into Du Page County, Ill., and began working for farmers and on railroads, never refusing honest work of any kind no matter how hard. Five years later he came to Minooka, Grundy County, and began hauling wood. This work lasted during the first winter, and in the summer he found employment at farm labor. In 1867, having! carefully saved his money, he was able to purchase sixty acres in Aux Sable Township. It was wild land, but he immediately began clearing and as able, added to his holdings until he now owns 334 acres all in one body, 200 acres of which are under cultivation, the balance being given over to hay, timber and pasture. Having worked very hard until 1910, in that year he partially retired, leaving the active management of the property to his sons. In July, 1856, Mr. Hansel married Rosa Holtz, born in Germany, who died in May, 1869. Their daughter, Mary, died at the age of eight years. In June, 1870, Mr. Hansel married (second) Sarah McGraw, born in Ireland. By his second marriage, he has had three children: Edward, who died at the age of twenty-six years; Jacob, who died at the age of twenty-four years; and Thomas, who died at the age of twenty-eight years. The second Mrs. Hansel died in the fall of 1877. In 1880 Mr. Hansel married (third) Minnie Creiger, born in Prussia, Germany, and they have had eight children: Mary, who is Mrs. Thomas Kinsler, of Aux Sable Township; Frank, who is at home; William, who is of Aux Sable Township; Charles, who is at home; Louise, who is Mrs. Brooks of Aux Sable Township; Anna, who is Mrs. John Sneider of South Minnesota; Hattie, who is a school teacher; and Carrie, who is at home. Mr. Hansel is a member of the German Lutheran Church. For many years he has been a school direct! or and has held other local offices, for he is a man whose capability is recognized and appreciated by his neighbors. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 822-823

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Germain Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1445 Message Board Post: Germain, Louis – One of the old and honored residents of Grundy County, Ill., who in spite of the lack of early advantages has gained a place for himself among the substantial men of his community, is Louis Germain, a veteran of the Civil War and a citizen who in every way has fulfilled the best duties of citizenship. He was born in 1840, at Plattsburg, Clinton County, N. Y., at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, on Lake Champlain, and is a son of Peter and Julia (Christian) Germain, natives, respectively, of France and New York. Louis Germain’s father was employed in the ore mines of New York, and the family was in modest financial circumstances, so that the lad’s educational advantages were limited to short attendance in a little log cabin schoolhouse. At the age of fifteen years he left home to make his own way in the world, and went to Sandy Hill, on the Hudson River, where he lived with a cousin and worked on the river. Subsequently, he came west with a railroad contractor and helped in the construction of an extension of the Michigan Southern Railroad to Ligonier, Ind. There he met and married Miss Mary A. Stone, daughter of Richard and Mary Ann (Higgins) Stone, natives of Pennsylvania. They were married March 11, 1859, by Rev. D. P. Hartman of Logan County, Ind., and in that year came west with the Stone family and located in Grundy County, Ill. Mr. Germain’s father-in-law was a farmer by occupation, and Mr. Germain remained with Mr. Stone for three years. He then! accepted a position as a clerk in a grocery in Gardner, and in 1870 became clerk for the late J. C. Lutz, who was engaged in the grocery and dry goods business. His first business venture of his own was in the firm of Germain & Hastings, undertakers and dealers in furniture, the partners having, all told, about $500 in stock. Mr. Hastings was the carpenter of the firm, made all the coffins, and did the greater part of the undertaking work. This business, however, did not satisfy Mr. Germain, and in 1872 he formed a partnership with R. B. Huss, under the firm style of Germain & Huss, in a general merchandise business and also buying and selling produce. This venture proved successful, but in 1874 the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Germain disposing of his interests to Mr. Huss. He then became a professional salesman, which calling he had followed before, and for many years was widely known for his activities along this line, he being one of the most successful “! wielders of the hammer” in this part of the State. In 1864 Mr. Germain enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the Civil War. He was commissioned second lieutenant and later promoted to first lieutenant, and was one of the officers detailed to guard the body of Abraham Lincoln when the martyred president lay in state at Springfield, and was an escort to the burial grounds. Mr. Germain has been successful in his business ventures, and owns 500 acres of farming land in Grundy County, a beautiful home in Gardner, and several other town properties. Although deprived of advantages in his youth, he has been a close student and observer, and is a self-educated man, alive to all the real topics of the day. While not affiliated with any church, he is a liberal contributor to all religious and charitable movements and his benevolences have been many. For the part twenty-five years he has been commander of the local post of the Grand Army of the Republic, and is very p! opular with his old comrades, as he is, in fact, with all who know him, whether in business, official or social life. In politics, he is a Republican, during the early sixties he entered public life as constable, was later deputy sheriff of Grundy County for four years, was twelve years a member of the board of township supervisors, for eleven years township assessor, and for nine years was a member of the township board of trustees, of which he was the first clerk. His entire official life was devoted to the best interests of his community and he won the universal respect of his fellow-townsmen. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Germain: Eva G., now Mrs. Wilkinson, living at Beloit, Wis.; Mabel, who married H. B. Gould, of Morris, Ill.; Grace E., who married H. B. Holmes, of Beloit, Wis.; Guy L., residing at Jackson, Wyo.; and Carrie and Lottie, who both died as children and are buried in Gardner Cemetery. There are eight grandchildren. Mrs. Germain is a member of the Woman’s Relief Corps. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 815-816

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Fisher Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1444 Message Board Post: Fisher, Volney H. – It often happens that a man learns a trade, is successful at it, and yet finds that his true life work lies in another direction. The sensible man when he discovers such a condition, enters into his new work, and develops its proportions until he is satisfied with his progress. This has been the case with Volney H. Fisher of Morris, Ill., who has not only achieved profitable results as a carpenter and builder, but made his name known throughout the State as manufacturer of been keepers’ supplies, as well as a grower of bees. Mr. Fisher was born at Morris, March 10, 1875, a son of Lyman A. and Margaret H. (Hazelton) Fisher, natives of New Hampshire, and Brooklyn, N. Y., respectively. They were married at Brooklyn, where he was engaged as a carpenter and ship builder. In 1858, the family came to Chicago, where Mr. Fisher worked as a carpenter, later going to Sterling and other Illinois points, until January 1, 1871, he settled at Morris! , where he continued at his trade until his death, in February, 1891. His widow survives, making her home at No. 842 E. Benton Street, Morris, where she has six acres of land. Mrs. Fisher is seventy years old at time of writing. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were: Solon H., born in 1864, died in August, 1902; Horace H., of Los Angeles, Cal., and Volney H., who resides with his mother. Volney H. Fisher was educated in the common schools and the Morris high school and learned the trade of a carpenter with his father, while still attending school. In the years that followed, he built a number of handsome residences both in Morris and the surrounding country, and still takes contracts for building. In 1896, his attention was attracted to bee culture, and he gradually came to devote more and more of his time to this work, until he now keeps from fifteen to fifty hives of bees. This calling led him into the manufacture of bee keepers’ supplies, which he sells all over the State, and he also sells bees. His various lines of endeavor keep him busy so that he has little time for outside matters, but votes the Republican ticket. Mr. Fisher is not married. He is a Presbyterian in religious faith. For some years, he has been a valued member of the Bee Keepers’ Association. A man who pays strict attention to his own affairs, and tried to do his! full duty in discharging the obligations of a citizen, he has won enviable distinction among his fellow citizens as an honorable, upright man, whose efforts have been rewarded with a success that is deserved. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 810-811

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Esgar Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1443 Message Board Post: Esgar, Mark – Among the old and honored residents of Grundy County, Ill., one who holds the esteem and respect of his fellow-citizens by reason of the capable and faithful manner in which he has ever performed the duties assigned to him, whether in war or peace, is Mark Esgar, a veteran of the Civil War and substantial farmer of Vienna Township. Mr. Esgar is a native of Somersetshire, England, where he was born January 20, 1840, a son of John F. and Louisa (Stevens) Esgar. The early education of Mr. Esgar was somewhat limited, as when he was a lad of but nine years he entered the coal mines of Wales. He was so employed until he reached the age of fourteen years, at which time he accompanied his parents to the United States, the parents settling first in New Jersey. Later Mr. Esgar went to the coal mines of Pennsylvania, where he was employed for one and one-half years, but then returned to New Jersey. In 1857, Mr. Esgar and a sister joined their parents in Kankakee County, Ill., where he became a farm hand, and was engaged in tilling the soil at the time of his enlistment, in August, 1862, in Company F, Eighty-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, his regiment being assigned to the Army of the Ohio. Later it was transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, and with this command Mr. Esgar fought until receiving his honorable discharge at the close of the hostilities, June 12, 1865, at Nashville, Tenn. A cheerful, gallant and reliable soldier, ! he won the admiration of his comrades and the respect of his officers, and left the service of his country with an excellent record. Returning to his parent’s home in Kankakee County, he remained but a short time, then moving to Braceville Township, Grundy County. There he was married, January 8, 1868, to Miss Elizabeth Ray, who was born in Germany, daughter of William and Johanetta (Stine) Ray, who came to the United States in 1851. After his marriage, Mr. Esgar rented a farm in Braceville Township, but in 1871 disposed of his interests there and moved to Vienna Township, where he has since made his home. He was industrious, energetic and persevering, and through good management accumulated 200 acres of land, which he developed into as fine a property as was to be found in this part of the State. During recent years, however, he has lived somewhat retired, having given his son, William J., 120 acres of his property, although he still superintends the operations! on eighty acres, and is keenly interested in all that affects his community. Mrs. Esgar passed away October 12, 1906, having been the mother of these children: Anetta Louisa, who married G. W. Johnson of Wauponsee Township; Fannie Lillian, who married Lyman Hough of Verona, Ill.; and William John, a farmer of Vienna Township. Mr. Esgar is a Republican. He has shown an interest in Grand Army work, and at the present time is a valued member of Darveau Post No. 329. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 809

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Delbridge Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1442 Message Board Post: Delbridge, Robert J. – While many of the agriculturalists of Grundy County find it profitable to carry on general farming, there are others who prefer to specialize, particularly on stock raising. One of the men who has attained to more than usual success in raising horse, cattle and hogs upon an extensive scale is Robert J. Delbridge of Saratoga Township, one of the leading men of the county. He was born at Ottawa, Ill., March 18, 1875, a son of John and Nancy (Diehl) Delbridge, natives of England and of Dayton, Ohio, respectively. The father came with his parents to New York where he lived from 1850 to 1856. In the latter year he moved to Ottawa, Ill., where he bought land, owning at one time 800 acres. The maternal grandparents, Jacob and Nancy Diehl, came from Pennsylvania to Ohio, where Mr. Diehl was a brewer, but later moved to Illinois. John and Nancy (Diehl) Delbridge were married at Ottawa, and he engaged in farming for some years. At present they are! living with their son, Robert J. The father was born in 1844, and the mother in 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Delbridge have had the following children: George, who is of Traer, Iowa; Jennie, who is Mrs. C. M. Ames of Glenn, Mich.; Nana, who is Mrs. James Bogle of Marseilles, Ill.; Robert J., and May Bell, who is the widow of Joseph Bell of Glenn, Mich. Robert J. Delbridge attended the schools of his neighborhood, and a commercial college of Valparaiso, Ind., and is a well qualified young business man. He handles from 200 to 250 heard of horses annually, the same amount of cattle and raises and feeds 300 head of hogs. Politically he is Republican, but aside from casting his vote for the candidates of his party, has not taken any part of public life. His mother is a Methodist, but he is not connected with any religious organization. A young man of ability and force of character, he is fast becoming a leader in the stock business of his county and richly deserves all the success which has come to him. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 803

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Walker Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1441 Message Board Post: Walker, Eddie Webster – Experience has taught some of the most progressive of the Grundy County agriculturalists that the best results are attained through specializing along certain lines. One of the men who has devoted himself to raising fine cattle and horses is Eddie Webster Walker, owner of 280 acres of good land in Mazon Township. His family history is given at length elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Walker has three stallions, one a Percheron and the other two Belgian, and their product is famed all over the country. He exhibits not only at the Grundy County fairs, but at the International Stock Shows. In addition to his noted horses, he breeds and raises Shorthorn cattle, and has a fine bull. His property is known as the Recherché Stock Farm. In addition to the land he owns, Mr. Walker rents additional land, operating in all 800 acres. In 1885 Mr. Walker married Miss Myrtle H. Keepers, born in Ohio, who, at one year of age came with her parents to make their home in Grundy County, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Walker have had five children, of whom three sons have grown to young manhood. They are: Floyde Eddie Walker, who married Miss Myrtle E. Symons, daughter of S. B. Symons of Mazon, Ill.; Myr J. Walker; and Ollie L. Walker. The married son, Floyde E., has his own home on the farm, and Myr J. and Ollie L. are with their father and all together they comprise the firm of E. W. Walker & Sons, proprietors of Recherche Stock Farm, Mazon, Ill. Mr. Walker belongs to the Methodist Church and gives it a liberal support. Fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. He has served on the Board of Education, and has been instrumental in securing good schools for his district. Recent public events have made him a Progressive in politics, and he is an ardent supporter of the principles involved in that movement. A man of advanced ideas, Mr. Walker has taken advantage of every opportunity to aid him in his operations, and has the best equipped farm in Mazon Township. As is but natural, his authority upon stock breeding matters is unquestioned, and his example is followed by many less enterprising than he. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 915-916

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Tappen Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1440 Message Board Post: Tappen, Andrew D. – To succeed along agricultural lines, a man must have a practical working knowledge of farming in all its details and be able to put it into immediate use. Some of the most progressive men of Grundy County have devoted themselves to this line of work, and one of them is Andrew Davis Tappen, of Morris. He was born in Oyster Bay, L. I., March 27, 1870, a son of John I. and Mary Elizabeth (Davis) Tappen, natives of Greenvale, L. I., and Brookville, L. I., respectively. The father died at Oyster Bay in 1876, and the mother came to Joliet, Ill., in 1893, but in 1896 she moved to Morris and still resides there, living among her children. After attending the public schools of his native place, Andrew D. Tappen began learning the carpenter and millwright trades, and also worked in a livery stable until 1895, when he came to Morris and was with the Coleman Hardware Company as a moulder. He was also in the nickelplate works in North Chicago. He was driving a bakery wagon for Fred Martin when he became interested in conducting a milk delivery business, and developed two routes. In 1910 he sold the routes, but continued to own cows and rents 100 acres of land, which he farms with gratifying success, and on November 1, 1912, again went into the milk business, and now has a herd of twenty-nine dairy cows. On July 7, 1904, Mr. Tappen was married to Clara R. Wilson, born at Morris, a daughter of Alexander and Margaret (Minich) Wilson, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Morris about 1854. Their children were: William B., who is deceased; George Alexander, who is of Chicago; Henry Nixon, who is deceased; and Mrs. Tappen. Mr. and Mrs. Tappen have no issue. He belongs to the Methodist Church, and supports it liberally. The Republican party has had his vote since he has attained his majority. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow and Modern Woodmen of America, belonging to Morris lodges of both orders. A live, dependable man, he had many experiences in business lines before he found one suited to his ability, and since then has made considerable progress towards his desired end. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 906

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Schroder Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1439 Message Board Post: Schroder, John B. - The earnest, steadfast, reliable German-Americans are numbered among the very best citizens of this county, and are ever to be found in the ranks of the substantial people of any community in which they may elect to reside, for they are hard-working and thrifty, and know how to invest their money profitably. One of these excellent types of what can be accomplished by a blending of Germany and America is John B. Schroder of Morris, at present a police magistrate. Mr. Schroder was born in Baden, Germany, March 23, 1831, son of Adam and Eva (Masinger) Schroder, both of whom died in Germany, the mother when John B. was only two years of age. When twenty years old, Mr. Schroder went into the German army, and served in a cavalry regiment for six years, a portion of the time as riding master. In 1854 at Havre, Mr. Schroder married Eliza Chulett, of Baden, Germany, and embarked from that port for America. During the voyage his young wife died, and he landed in New York City alone. From there he went to Chicago, where he was met by a brother, who resided at Elgin, Ill. Having learned the harnessmaking trade in his native land, Mr. Schroder was able to open a harness shop at Elgin, and conducted it for five years, when he sold, and afterward traveled throughout the West for a time and then located at Minooka, where he opened a harness and saddlery shop, and became an important man in the place. He served as constable and as town clerk, and in 1866 was elected sheriff of Grundy County, and held that important office continuously until 1890. During this period he brought many offenders to justice, and participated in one execution. Mr. Schroder was in Atchison County, Kas., for a year, buying and operating a farm during that time, and he also served as grain inspecto! r at Chicago for another year. Finally disposing of his other interests, he came to Morris, and opened a harness shop. Almost immediately he was made a justice of the peace, and in 1892 was elected police magistrate, and still holds that office. In addition to his other interests, he owns four residences. In 1855, Mr. Schroder was married (second), at Elgin, Ill., to Josephine Fessler, born in Alsace, France, daughter of Ehlbon Fessler. The children born of this marriage were: John B., of San Francisco; Josephine, Mrs. John Francis of Peoria. Ill.; and Adelaide N., Mrs. William Gibbart of Morris. Politically he is a Republican. Mr. Schroder is a Knight Templar, Mason, and takes a deep interest in his fraternal connection. He is a man of strict integrity, and his wise, conservative rulings are usually sustained by the higher courts, for, although not a lawyer, he has good knowledge of the law and assisted by keen insight into human nature and long experience, he is able to decide correctly with regard to the cases brought before him. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 898

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Reardon Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1438 Message Board Post: REARDON, Cornelius.—A thorough and profound lawyer, whose connection with much important law business has made him more or less a familiar figure in the courts of Grundy County and the State, Cornelius Reardon typifies the best type of legal mind, and his high standing at the bar is the more creditable, in that it has been entirely self gained. Further, he is a stirring and stalwart citizen, a friend of progress and advancement, and, although Mr. Reardon would be the last to admit it, is a leader of the Democratic party in his part of the state. Mr. Reardon is one of Morris’ favorite native sons. Here he was born February 27, 1858. a son of James and Mary L. (Bagley) Reardon, natives of Ireland. The father came to the United States with an uncle, Patrick Ryan, and from the age of nine until he was fifteen years old made his home with Mr. Ryan at Chicago. He faced the world on his own account at that time, becoming a driver of canal boats on the Illinois and Michigan canal, an employment in which he was engaged for two years, and in October, 1852, came to Morris, where he took up the trade of a blacksmith and continued to follow that vocation until his death, June 11, 1907. The mother came to Morris when eleven years of age, to join an elder sister, with whom she lived until her marriage, and passed away many years prior to her husband’s demise, dying in 1872. Six children were born to James and Mary L. Reardon: Cornelius, the eldest; Margaret, who is now Mrs. Redmond and resides at Kansas City, Mo.; ! Edward P., who died at the age of thirty-three years; Mary, who is Mrs. Ludwig, of Morris; Elizabeth, who is Mrs. Bray, of El Paso, Tex.; and James W., who died in infancy. After the death of his first wife, James Reardon married (second) Mary Kenrick, who was born in Grundy County, and they became the parents of two children: Edna, who became the wife of Thomas Connors; and Nettie, who lives at the old home. While Cornelius Reardon was given the advantages of attendance at the graded and high schools of Morris, the greater part of his early education was acquired in the schools of hard work and experience. He was taught the blacksmith trade by his father, but had aspirations for greater things, and, having set his heart upon a career in the law, displayed his characteristic assiduity in the gaining of an education in jurisprudence. A long, hard day in his father’s shop would he followed by hours of the utmost diligence in perfecting his knowledge of law, under the capable preceptorship of Judge Jordan, one of the early legists and jurists of Morris. When he was twenty years of age he gave up the blacksmith trade to work upon a farm, but during the next ten years he continued to apply himself to his legal studies, and his hard work and close application were eventually rewarded when he was admitted to the bar. From that time to the present his rise has been constant and s! teady, giving him prominence in his profession and the material rewards that such a position insures. While a general practitioner, he has made somewhat of a specialty of probate law, and in this difficult field has become known far and wide for the success he has attained in some important legal business. He has not ceased to be a scholar and his command of the law is comprehensive and in some sense remarkable. Among his fellow-practitioners he is recognized as an attorney who strictly adheres to the best ethics of an honored ca]ling. Mr. Reardon was married February 5, 1879, to Miss Kittie Higgins, who was born in La Salle County, Ill., and she died in April, 1884. On April 2, 1888, Mr. Reardon was married (second) to Miss Maggie Eagan, who was born in Grundy County, Ill., daughter of Thomas and Mary Eagan, natives of Ireland and early settlers of Grundy County. Three children have been born to Mr. Reardon, namely: May, who became Mrs. Edward Peacock, of Morris; Thomas J., who has taken up farming for his lifework; and Edward C., who died in 1908, at the age of fourteen years. On January 30, 1913, Thomas J. married Helen Noonan, and one daughter, Helen Margaret, was born to them, November 8, 1913. This little granddaughter is the pride and joy of her grandfather’s heart. Mr. Reardon has been long and prominently connected with Democratic politics, although more as a directing power than as a seeker after personal preferment. He stands for the best that may be found in Democracy, and at all times supports those men and measures whom he believes will best favor the interests of his community. A Roman Catholic in his religious belief, Mr. Reardon belongs to the congregation of the Church of the Immaculate Conception. His fraternal connections are with Lodge No. 845, Knights of Columbus; and Lodge No. 281, Modern Woodmen of America, both of Morris. Both as a professional man and as a citizen, Mr. Reardon has won a high place in the esteem of the community, and is eminently qualified to be accounted one of Grundy County’s representative men. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 889-890

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Peacock Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1437 Message Board Post: PEACOCK, Leander Alexander (deceased). – One of the well-cultivated and valuable farms of Grundy County, Ill., is that known as Pleasant View, located in Erienna Township, on Morris Rural Route No. 3, which for many years has been the home of the Peacock family. Here resided for a long period the late Leander Alexander Peacock, whose skill as an agriculturalist and activities as a citizen made him a valuable and valued man in his community, and whose death, which occurred February 27, 1902, was widely mourned. Mr. Peacock was born in Erienna Township, Grundy County, Ill., June 17, 1851, and was a son of Alexander R. and Mary (Stewart) Peacock. Alexander R. Peacock was born in England, and as a young man emigrated to Canada, where, at Leperara, he was married to Mary Stewart, a native of the Dominion. In 1837, after the birth of their first child, they came by wagon to the United States, locating first at Morris, Ill., but subsequently moving to a farm in Saratoga Township. Later they bought a property of 240 acres, located in Erienna Township, and another tract of 160 acres in Nettle Creek Township. Mr. Peacock died on the Erienna Township farm, January 18, 1855, while his widow survived many years, passing away at the home of a daughter in Iowa. Leander A. Peacock received a public school education, and was reared to agricultural pursuits, the early death of his father making it necessary that he start to aid in the family support when he was still but a lad. He was married November 1, 1876, to Miss Emma D. Towsley, who was born July 8, 1858, a daughter of George and Sophia (Shipman) Towsley, of Ontario, Canada, and grandfather of Harmon Towsley, of Vermont, and Ezra and Mary Ann (Gallop) Shipman, of Canada. The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. Alling of Morris, Ill. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Peacock resided with the former’s mother until the following spring, when they moved to a farm owned by Mr. Peacock in Nettle Creek Township, a tract of 160 acres, where they remained and farmed until January, 1885. At that time they moved to Mr. Peacock’s father’s old place, Pleasant View Farm, which he had purchased from the heirs and here he owned all 400 acres. He was known as a skill! ed and progressive farmer, alert to the progress made in his calling, and as a public spirited citizen and desirable neighbor. A stalwart Republican, he took a deep interest in public affairs, and at various times served as road commissioner, supervisor, township treasurer, school director and justice of the peace. His fraternal connection was with the Knights of Pythias of Morris, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Peacock were the parents of the following children: Iva E., born August 11, 1877, now Mrs. Daniel Hohenshell, who has three children, Russell, Ethel and Alta; Alfred A., born September 25, 1878, who married May Clark, and lives in Morris, Ill., has one daughter, Lois; Ada L., born January 7, 1880, now Mrs. Albert Hoge, of Nettle Creek Township, who has three sons, Gordon, Chester and Earnest; Lila A., born August 18, 1881, now Mrs. Fred Dix, of Morris, Ill.; George Adelbert, born March 23, 1883, a resident of Nettle Creek Township, married Grace Morrall, to whom were born two daughters, Hazel and Alberta; Chester D., born October 24, 1885, who died October 11, 1906; Irvin D., born September 26, 1887, a resident of Nettle Creek Township, married Ella Caldwell; Herman Ray, born April 3, 1889, living at home with his mother; Charles A., born September 28, 1891 at home; Clifford H., born February 2, 1893, also at home; and Gladys Grace, born September 23, 1894, also! living at Pleasant View Farm. Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Peacock has managed the operation of the home place, and has made a decided success both in general farming and in the raising of thoroughbred Duroc-Jersey hogs. She is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is widely known and highly esteemed in the township in which she has made her home for so many years. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 880-881

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/wg.2ADE/1374.1.1.1.1.1.1 Message Board Post: Thanks again Lea, your help has been invaluable to a rookie like me. Is there anything I can do for you?

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1374.1.1.1.1.1 Message Board Post: You asked how I knew Emilie/Emily Davis' maiden name. A relative of the Rutherford family sent some material regarding certain branches of the family. All of Solomon & Elvira's children were mentioned. Re the birth of Fae Cecil Davis--his social security number appears to be 313-32-0717. One can write to the social security office (check ssdi.rootsweb.com to see if they give directions how to obtain information). The original application form gives date of birth, where born, name of parents. Also, he probably had to register for the World War I draft. It might contain the exact place of birth too. Everyone born between 13 Sept 1872 and 12 Sept 1900 had to register, unless they were already in the military. Lea

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Olson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1436 Message Board Post: OLSON, Thomas B. - Not only have the agriculturalists of Grundy County proven themselves men of expediency as farmers, but they are making a record for themselves as breeders of fine stock. One of the men who has found it profitable to breed and raise Belgian and Norman horses is Thomas B. Olson, of Nettle Creek Township. He was born in Erienna Township, this county, September 15, 1883, a son of Theodore and Bertha (Thorson) Olson, born at Stavanger, Norway. After their marriage they came to Morris, Ill., and the father farmed for the following twenty-six years on the same farm in Erienna Township, in 1909, he returned to Morris, where he died in 1910. His widow survives and lives at Morris. Thomas B. Olson attended the schools of his home neighborhood and remained with his parents until his marriage when he rented 140 acres of land in Erienna Township, later renting fifty acres more. For three years he operated this property, and then moved to his present farm of 261 acres in Nettle Creek Township. He devotes 190 acres to grain and the balance is hay land and pasture for his stock. On December 18, 1905, Mr. Olson married Alice Clauson, born in Miller Township, La Salle County, Ill., a daughter of Martin and Littie (Brue) Clauson, the former born in La Salle County, and the latter in Nettle Creek Township. Mr. and Mrs. Olson have the following children: Truman, Milan, Florence, and Lyday E. Mr. Olson is a member of the Stavanger Church. Politically he is a Republican, but his time and attention are so taken up with his farm industries that he has little time for outside matters, so has made no effort to enter into public life. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 877

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Newman Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1435 Message Board Post: Newman, Henry, Jr. (deceased) - Grundy County is one of the leading agricultural centers of Illinois, and this prestige has been gained through the public spirited efforts of its farmers. One who bore his part in this noble work, although he has now passed to his last reward, was the late Henry Newman, Jr., for many years a farmer of Aux Sable Township. Mr. Newman was born in Saratoga Township, December 4, 1862, a son of the late Henry and Magdeline Newman, natives of Germany, the former of whom came in young manhood, and the latter was brought to this country in childhood. They married and settled on what became their homestead in Aux Sable Township, where the widow still lives. Henry Newman, Jr., attended the local schools, and was brought up to a farming life, remaining with his parents until his marriage, which occurred December 31, 1890, when he was united by Rev. Hitchcock with Fannie Paul, born at Troy, Will County, Ill., November 22, 1869, daughter of Oliver and Elizabeth (Shepley) Paul. Mr. Paul was born in Pennsylvania, but his wife was a native of Lancastershire, England. The Shepley family came to Plainfield, Kendall County, Ill., at an early day. They later moved to Minooka, Ill., where they both died. Oliver Paul died December 17, 1876, and his widow was married June 2, 1884, to Joseph Eaton, and they now live at Joliet, Ill. After his marriage, Henry Newman, Jr., moved to a portion of his father's 400-acre farm, on which his father had built a house and other necessary buildings. He owned 227 acres of fine land, and cultivated 200 acres of it. While living on this property, he made improvements, and took pride in keeping things in excellent order. He raised corn and oats on the land under the plow, devoting the remainder to hay and pasturage, as he fed and raised cattle on an extensive scale, and handled a large number of pigs. Mr. and Mrs. Newman became the parents of the following children: Henry Oliver, who was born January 7, 1895; Arthur William, who was born August 12, 1897; and Gladys Olive, who was born February 14, 1899, all at home. Mr. Newman became so seriously ill that he was operated upon, on December 6, 1909, at the Presbyterian hospital at Chicago, and for a year was relieved of the suffering he had been enduring, but his disease then made such progress that he was taken back to the hospital, but the skill of the surgeons availed nothing, and he passed away March 14, 1911. Since his demise, Mrs. Newman has continued to operate the farm with the assistance of her son and hired help. Mrs. Newman is an accomplished lady, was a pupil in the Minooka High school, and secured a teacher's certificate, and prior to her marriage taught music. Mr. Newman was a Republican and held the office of school trustee for three successive terms. He belonged to the Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Pythias, both of Minooka, and was as popular in these organizations as he was in the neighborhood, where he was held in the highest esteem. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, pages 874-875

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Major Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1434 Message Board Post: MAJOR, John Chastine, M. D., who has been engaged in the successful practice of his profession since 1900, was born in McLean County, Ill., December 31, 1876, a son of Chastine and Mary (MAURICE) MAJOR. Chastine MAJOR was born in McLean County and his wife is also an Illinoisan. He was engaged in farming in that country until his death, which occurred in 1904 at Arrowsmith, Mrs. MAJOR dying in 1890 at the same place and she and her husband are buried in McLean County. They were the parents of two children: John Chastine and Thomas W. The boyhood of Dr. MAJOR was spent on a farm. He attended the district school of his locality, then entered the Illinois Wesleyan University, studying there three years, and subsequently entered Rush Medical College of Chicago, where he was graduated in 1900. He then located in Braidwood, Ill., where he remained until 1906, when he came to Coal City, at which place he has built up a good practice and has established an excellent reputation for skill in his profession. Dr. MAJOR was married, January 1, 1901, to Ida JACK of Braidwood, who was born in Braidwood, April 2, 1881, and to this union two children were born: Rex Chastine, born December 24, 1902, and Bessie Bell, born July 10, 1906, who died November 2, 1908. Dr. and Mrs. MAJOR are Methodists. He is a member of the following lodges: Masonic, Knights of Pythias, Foresters, Eastern Star and the White Cross. Politically he is a Republican. He is now deputy coroner of Grundy County, having served on the Board of Health of Coal City for two years. He is modest and unassuming in demeanor, pleasant and courteous to all, and has a multitude of close personal friends in all stations of life. He owns 170 acres of land in Maine Township. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 858

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Larson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1433 Message Board Post: Larson, Henry M. – Morris affords opportunities for progressive men in many varied lines, and attracts to it some of the best business minds in the county. One of the men of the County Seat who has done exceptionally well both in a real estate business and as an auctioneer is Henry M. Larson. He was born in Fox Township, Kendall County, Ill., December 25, 1858, a son of L. and Mary (Henderson) Larson of Bergen, Norway. They went to Kendall County about 1850, there securing government land to the extent of 160 acres for which they paid $1.25 per acre. At the time they located upon it, the farm was raw prairie land, but the father improved it, erecting the necessary buildings and farmed it for many years. Both he and his wife are still living, and are very active in spite of their advanced years. Their children were: L. N., who is on the old homestead; Sarah, who died in 1881; Henry M.; Lewis, who is of Dallas, Tex., where he is a horse trainer; Lyna, who is Mrs! . L. S. Shurson of Lisbon, Kendall County; Mary, who is with her parents and Rachel, who is Mrs. Olie Surson of Driscoll, N. D. Henry M. Larson resided with his parents until 1883, when he and a comrade drove with a team and buggy to Iowa, then on to Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Black Hills of Dakota. After a trip of two years, Mr. Larson returned to his home, and soon thereafter began auctioneering, and handling real estate. In order to better carry on these two lines he moved to Morris where he has since resided. He has cried sales all over this part of Illinois and in Iowa. Mr. Larson handles real estate, specializing on western lands, and farming property in Iowa and Illinois, and has succeeded very well in all he has undertaken. On November 22, 1888, Mr. Larson was married to Annie Olson, born in Big Grove Township, Kendall County, Ill., a daughter of Gunner and Mary Olson, natives of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Larson have had the following family: Silas J., who is a veterinary surgeon of Livingston, Mont.; Ida Mae, who is at home; and Arthur, who died in 1906, aged eight and one-half years. Mr. Larson belongs to the Norwegian Lutheran Bethlehem Church. A Republican, he has been County Constable, and is a man upon whom every dependence can be placed. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 850

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Keith Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1432 Message Board Post: Keith, Fred – Not only do many of the most progressive of the Grundy County men carry on agricultural pursuits successfully, but they are also interested in other lines of endeavor, and bring to bear upon all their affairs a broad and determined policy that works out for the betterment of their community generally. One of these farmers and business men of this locality is Fred Keith, of Mazon Township, who owns and operates 180 acres of fertile land, and is treasurer of the Farmers Elevator Company. He was born in his present township, August 26, 1854, a son of Henry and Lucy (Daniels) Keith. The parents were natives of Vermont and New York, respectively, who came first to Grundy County, but later went to Minnesota, where the father died when Fred Keith was nine years old. The mother survived him and afterward married Albert Ishem, and died later in Indiana. They had four children: William, who is deceased; Fred; May and Frank, both of whom are deceased. Fred Keith was educated in the country schools, and well trained in farm work. When he was twenty-four years old, he began farming on rented land, later buying his present farm on which he carries on general farming. When the Farmers Elevator Company was organized, he was made its treasurer and has held that position ever since. He is a member of the Grundy County Fair Association, and is a recognized authority on agricultural matters. The Masonic Lodge affords him fraternal diversion, while politically he is a Republican, and has been school director for two terms, assessor for three terms, and school treasurer for two terms. On February 24, 1878, by Rev. Ferner of Mazon Township, Mr. Keith was married to Clara Irons, born October 26, 1858, in Mazon Township, and they have one child, now Mrs. Hattie I. Robinson. She was married April 10, 1907, by Rev. Seibert. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson have two children: Dorothy K. and Donald F.; and they reside in Mazon. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 845-846

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Jerbi Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1431 Message Board Post: Jerbi, Hector, who holds prestige among Grundy County business men as proprietor of the leading general merchandise store of East Brooklyn, Ill., is still a young man, but has already won a measure of success in commercial circles that many have not attained even after a lifetime of business effort. He was born in Northern Italy, December 29, 1881, and is a son of Joseph and Johanna (Rivara) Jerbi. Joseph Jerbi was a coal miner by occupation and emigrated to the United States in 1881, locating at Braidwood, Ill., where he secured employment with the Chicago, Wilmington and Vermillion Coal Company, and continued in the employ of this concern for eight years. In the meantime, through thrift, economy and tireless industry, he succeeded in accumulating a sufficient amount of money to send for his wife and two sons, who joined him in 1889 at Clark City, Ill., to which city he had removed. The family consisted of the father and mother and three sons, the latter being: John and Hector, born in Italy, who accompanied their mother to America in 1889; and James, born in this country. The father was killed March 11, 1914, by being kicked by a horse belonging to his son, and the mother died March 10, 1906. Hector Jerbi was about eight years of age when he came to the United States, and his education was secured in the public schools of Suffernville, Ill. Following the completion of his studies he went to work in the mines for eight years, and then secured a position as clerk in the general store, at that time operated by Bottino Brothers. By close application, after three years he found himself competent to carry on the business of his own account, and in 1908 purchased the stock of goods owned by his employers, and has since become the leading merchant of East Brooklyn, Ill., handling a full and up-to-date line of groceries, dry goods, hardware, crockery and miners’ supplies. He is an exceptionally intelligent and well-informed man, thoroughly awake to modern business methods, and his honorable dealings and strict integrity have won the confidence and liberal patronage of the people of his locality. He is a self-made man in the truest sense, for whatever he has ac! complished has been as a result of his own efforts. Mr. Jerbi was married March 21, 1908, to Miss Mary Bottino, at South Wilmington, Ill., at which place she was born, a daughter of Frank and Mary Bottino. To this union there have come two daughters: Jennie, who was born October 17, 1908; and Mary, born November 17, 1910. Mr. and Mrs. Jerbi are faithful members of the Catholic Church. He is a Republican, but has found no time to enter actively into the affairs of the political arena. He has many friends in fraternal circles, being a popular member of the Foresters of America, at Coal City; the Fraternal Order of Eagles, at South Wilmington; Victor Emanuel III, at Coal City; and Minatore D’Italia, at East Brooklyn. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 838-839

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Isham Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1430 Message Board Post: Isham, Zachariah, a son of Gersham Isham, and formerly an agriculturalist of Mazon Township, was born in Vermont, February 11, 1831. Coming to Grundy County in 1844, when the family migration occurred. Zachariah Isham grew up in this neighborhood, and became the owner of 240 acres of land in Mazon Township. On November 30, 1854, he married Susan S. Viner of Mazon Township and they had eight children. Source: History of Grundy County Illinois, 1914, page 837

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Davis Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/wg.2ADE/1374.1.1.1.1 Message Board Post: I am also looking for the birthplace of Fae (or Fay) Cecil Davis. He was born somewhere in Illinois 19 Jul 1897. Father was William L Davis & mother was Laura Wells Davis. Fay was my grandfather. Thanks