This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Halkyard Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1399 Message Board Post: Halkyard, Orlando – Conscientious endeavor along any one specified line will bring about desirable results provided the work is done intelligently, and thrift is practiced. One of the men who has attained to considerable prominence as a successful agriculturalist of Grundy County is Orlando Halkyard of Aux Sable Township. He was born in Lancashire, England, October 28, 1840, a son of James and Lydia (Glover) Halkyard. Although the father was a silk weaver in England, when he came to Morris, Grundy County, Ill., in 1856, he became a farmer. At first he bought ten acres in Aux Sable Township, which was all covered with timber except a small space on which he put up a house. James Halkyard kept on adding to his holdings until he owned eighty acres at the time of his demise, on January 8, 1885, when he was seventy-seven years old. His widow died April 24, 1878, aged seventy-two years. Their children were: John, who was born October 2, 1832, of Joliet, Ill.; James! , who was born in May, 1834, died at Aurora in May, 1911; Sarah, Mrs. Henry Baker, who is deceased; Ann, Mrs. James Baker, who lives in Kendall County, Ill.; Lucy, Mrs. William Dix, who died about 1890; and Orlando, who is the youngest. Orlando Halkyard grew up on his father’s farm and attended the local schools, learning in the meanwhile how to till the soil. In February, 1888, Orlando Halkyard married Marceline Degerld, born at Aurora, Ill., daughter of John and Matilda Degerld, natives of Canada. Mrs. Halkyard’s father is dead, her mother living at Aurora. In order to provide for his old age, James Halkyard had made an arrangement with his son Orlando to give him one-half of the homestead for taking care of him the remainder of his life. After the death of the father, Orlando Halkyard bought the other half from his heirs, and since that time purchased another farm, one of 137 acres in Aux Sable Township, which is operated by his son, John. This property, like the homestead is devoted to grain farming and stock raising. Mr. and Mrs. Halkyard have three sons: George, who is with his parents; John, who operates the second farm; and William, who is also at home. All of his life, Mr. H! alkyard has been a Republican, but he has never sought public office. A good farmer and excellent business man. Mr. Halkyard has succeeded in his work, and is a highly respected citizen. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 821-822

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Mahon Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1398 Message Board Post: MAHON, William - Perhaps no calling permits of so early a retirement as that of farming, but then few exact so much from those who labor. The farmer exposed as he is to all changes of weather and forced to overwork in season, wears out sooner than one who can regulate his hours and protect himself from the elements. However as it may be, it is certain that there are more men of substance who have earned their wealth from agricultural pursuits in Grundy County, than in any other way, and one who is specially deserving of mention in this connection is William MAHON of Wauponsee Township, now living retired upon his farm which he rents to his sons. Mr. MAHON was born in Ontario, Canada, June 4, 1838, a son of Thomas and Maria (TOWRISS) MAHON, natives of Ireland and England respectively. At maturity they came to Canada, where both died, the mother in 1841, and the father some years later. When he was seventeen years old, William MAHON began working in Canada among neighboring farmers, thus continuing until 1869, when he came to Grundy County, Ill., and renting land, operated it a few years until about 1876, he bought eighty acres in Wauponsee Township. This property was unimproved and he erected the necessary buildings upon it and conducted the farm until his retirement in 1905, which was co-incident with his renting of it to his sons. On September 24, 1861, Mr. MAHON was married by the Rev. McCLAREN of Ontario, to Elizabeth LANE, who was born in Ontario, Canada, a daughter of George and Julia (READ) LANE, natives of Canada. Mrs. MAHON died June 12, 1910, and is buried in the Sample Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. MAHON became the parents of children as follows: George, born January 26, 1863, died August 18, 1864; James P., born in Canada, June 9, 1865, lives in Wauponsee Township, and married Minnie WILLIAMS, born in Mason County, Ill., a daughter of Joseph and Naomie (ANDERSON) WILLIAMS, natives of Canada and Ohio, respectively, they having the following children - Myrtle MAHON, born February 13, 1893, and Mildred MAHON, born September 15, 1901, who are both at home; Elenor, who was born March 18, 1870, died October 7, 1875; and Freeman L., born in Mazon Township, August 25, 1877, is on the homestead, and married Amy L. HUNT, born September 2, 1878, in Felix Township, a daughter of Sheldon and Catherine (PATTE! RSON) HUNT, they having one daughter - Blanche I. MAHON, born November 29, 1903. Politically Mr. MAHON is a Republican, but has never desired office. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church. A man of unblemished honor, he has gained and retained the confidence and respect of all with whom he has been brought into contact. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 857

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Gardner Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1397 Message Board Post: Gardner, James M. – Grundy County has attracted men from all over the country, as well as from foreign lands. The soil here is so fertile that those whose work is the cultivation of the land, know that they can make good profits and realize heavily upon an investment in farms. One of the men who has developed into a prosperous agriculturists within the confines of the county, is James M. Gardner of Nettle Creek Township. He was born in Marshall County, W. Va., March 10, 1849, a son of Lemuel L. and Emily (Woods) Gardner, natives of Trenton, N. J., and Marshall County, W. Va., respectively. After attaining his majority, the father went to West Virginia, and later moved to Grundy County, Ill. Although a carpenter, he bought a farm in Saratoga Township and worked it until 1896, when he retired, moving then to Morris, where he died in 1898, his widow surviving him until June 29, 1912, when she too passed away. Both are buried in Evergreen cemetery at Morris. James M. Gardner was brought up in West Virginia and there educated in the common schools. He remained with his parents until his marriage, when he rented land first in Saratoga Township, and later in Nettle Creek Township for two years, then bought eighty acres in that same township. A year later he sold this land and then rented for one year more when he purchased his present farm of eighty acres, still continuing in Nettle Creek Township. His property is a valuable one and he conducts it according to modern methods. On January 8, 1872, Mr. Gardner was married to Mary Jane Riggs, born in Marshall County, W. Va., daughter of Simeon and Hannah (Bowen) Riggs, both of Marshall County, and two children were born of this marriage: Elmer N., who lives in Wisconsin, and William L. Mrs. Gardner died July 18, 1879. On January 2, 1881, Mr. Gardner was married (second) to Lucy R. Penfield, born in Oneida County, N. Y., daughter of Charles and Rowena M. (Brown) Penfield of New York State. Mr. Gardner is a Democrat, and has served as school director and road commissioner, being a faithful and conscientious official. He is a good farmer, fine business man and excellent citizen, and commands the confidence and respect of all who know him. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 814

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Curtin Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1396 Message Board Post: Curtin, John Thomas – The owner of a farm of 120 acres of land in Greenfield Township, which has been brought to a high state of cultivation through his skill, industry and good management, John Thomas Curtin is recognized as one of the substantial farmer-citizens of Grundy County, and as a man whose interest in the welfare of his community entitles him to the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens. He is a native of the Prairie State, having been born in La Salle County, in 1856, a son of John and Catherine (Maloney) Curtin, natives of Limerick, Ireland. His father, who was a farmer in his native Erin, emigrated to the United States at the age of twenty-one years, and almost immediately settled in LaSalle County, where he commenced farming. In 1869 the family transferred to Grundy County, and there the father took up land in Highland Township, that locality being the scene of his subsequent activities. Shortly prior to his death, which occurred in 1899, he re! tired from active pursuits and moved to Kinsman, Ill. Mrs. Curtin died in 1905, and was laid to rest beside her husband in the family cemetery at Ottawa. They were the parents of nine children: John Thomas; Mary, Timothy and Thomas, all three deceased and buried at Ottawa; Mrs. Katherine O. Levi; Margaret; Jeremiah, deceased; Mrs. Mary Leahy; and Thomas (II), a resident of Reed Township, Will County, Ill. John Thomas Curtin attended the district school in La Salle County until eleven years old and later the school in Highland Township, Grundy County, his attendance being confined to the short winter terms as his services were needed on the home farm during the summer months. He was brought up to the honest and healthy work of tilling the soil, and continued with his father until his marriage, at the age of twenty-six years, to Miss Martha Lamping, a native of Wilmington, Ill. Following this he embarked upon his own career as a farmer on rented land, and by 1885 was able to purchase a tract of land in Garfield Township. This he continued to operate for nine years, but in 1894 disposed of it and bought his present property. During the past twenty years he has made this one of the best farms of its size in the township, and its numerous improvements and buildings make it very valuable. He is a believer in the use of modern methods and machinery, keeps fully abreast of the v! arious advancements made in his adopted calling, and has won his way to affluence solely through the force of individual effort and merit. With his family, he attends the Catholic Church at South Wilmington. His political belief is that of the Democratic party, and for nine years he has served efficiently as a member of the school board of Greenfield Township. Mr. and Mrs. Curtin have been the parents of ten children: Julia, Covney, John, Katherine, Maud, Nellie, Mary, Loretta, William and Terrence, of whom the two last named are now deceased. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 799-800

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Nelson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1395 Message Board Post: Nelson, John, the owner of 160 acres of land located in Garfield Township, on which he is carrying on general farming operations, was born in Norway, January 27, 1861, and came to this country as a lad of five years, in 1866. The father of Mr. Nelson was a farmer in Norway, and on coming to America in 1866 took up that occupation in Kendall County, Ill., where the mother died in 1872. In 1887 the father came to Grundy County, and for a number of years carried on agricultural pursuits, but moved to Gardner and lived retired for ten years prior to his death, which occurred March 23, 1912. He is buried in the cemetery near Braceville, Ill. Mr. Nelson married (first) Julia Gundersen, and to this union there were born four children: John, Mrs. Carrie Raymer, Gunner and Mrs. Anna Milburn. He was married the second time to Carrie Olsen, of Kendall County, Ill., and to this union there were born six sons: Nels, who is deceased; and Thor, Gerhardt, Martin, Iver and Ben. John Nelson received his education in the district schools of Kendall County, and at the age of eighteen years began to work among the farmers for monthly wages. By the time he reached the age of twenty years he had saved enough from his earnings to purchase his first team and tools, and had enough left to rent land. From that time on his rise was rapid and continued, and in 1900 he bought his present handsome farm, a property consisting of 160 acres, all in a high state of cultivation. On this land he has made many fine improvements, and his house and barns are among the finest farm structures to be found in the township. In 1889 Mr. Nelson was married to Miss Elizabeth Perry, who was born in Wales and came to this country alone. Six children have been born to this union: Mrs. Lillian Burkhardt, Eva, Mrs. Mabel Barrett, Guy, Beatrice and Della. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson and their children are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, and have taken an active interest in it! s work. He is a Republican in politics, and has served five years as a member of the board of school directors. His fraternal connections include membership in the Modern Woodmen of America, the Royal Neighbors and the Gleaners. During his long residence he has formed a wide acquaintance in Garfield Township, and in this he numbers many friends. Source: History of Grundy County, 1914, page 873

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Fillman Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1394 Message Board Post: Fillman, Charles, owner of 160 acres of fertile land in Good Farm Township, is one of the substantial agriculturists of his section. On this property he carries on general farming and has developed his property into one of the most valuable to be found in Grundy County. He was born at Dwight, Ill., August 28, 1860, a son of Jacob M. and Mary (Burger) Fillman, both of Germany, the latter in Bavaria. Jacob M. Fillman was a blacksmith, and was accounted one of the best in the State and widely known as he worked at his trade all along the Mississippi River, eventually making a permanent location in the vicinity of Dwight. He had a helpful wife and in order that he might give all of his attention to the work of the shop, she dug his coal for the forge. He helped to build the first wagon ever made at Marseilles, Ill., and was connected with the best class of work in his line throughout a wide territory. In 1867 he moved to Good Farm Township, and secured land. It was then in a state of wildness not easy to understand at this day, and that most estimable wife and mother not only did more than her part in the house, but helped her husband develop his land and even assisted in digging the wells. Jacob M. Fillman died in 1910, but his wife, in spite of all her hard work, survives, and is living in Minnesota. She and her husband has seven children: George, William, decease! d, Charles, Louis Kate, Jacob and Mary. Charles Fillman went to school at Dwight and until he attained his majority, remained at home with his father and assisted in operating the 700 acre farm of the latter. He has made all the improvements upon his own farm, including the erection of a beautiful brick residence that is modern in every respect. He belongs to the Lutheran Church and shows his interest in its good work. A Democrat, he is serving on the school board, and as an official endeavors to get for the children of his district the best possible educational advantages. On April 11, 1884, Mr. Fillman married Elizabeth Klughardt, born in this township. Their children have been: Frederika Krug; Lucy, who is deceased; Ella; Anna; Eddie, who is deceased; Lilly; Reuben, who is deceased; Franklin; Leslie; Warner and Erna. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 809

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/1393 Message Board Post: OLSON, Martin - Every branch of industrial endeavor is represented at Morris, for the whole county looks to it as a source of supply, and depends upon its business men to provide for it needs. One of the prosperous business men of Morris, who is known throughout Grundy County as an expert in his line, is Martin Olson, proprietor of a first-class blacksmith and general repairing shop. He was born in Kendall County, Ill., December 25, 1880, a son of Albert and Isabell (Soram) Olson, natives of Norway, who were married in Illinois. They were farming people who operated a large property in Kendall County but since coming to Morris, in 1898, Albert Olson has lived retired. Twice married, he lost his first wife in 1897. Later he married Sarah Eng. Until his mothers death, Martin Olson remained at home, but following that, rented land in Kendall County, and operated it. Coming to Grundy County, he farmed in Wauponsee Township for six years, when he moved to Morris, and was engaged for a time in clearing off stumps on wild land. In 1911 Mi. Olson opened a blacksmith shop, and since then has done all kinds of expert blacksmithing and general repair work. Owing to his thoroughness and his knowledge of his trade, Mr. Olson commands a large patronage and his volume of business shows a constant and healthy increase. In February, 1902, Mr. Olson was married to Josie Thompson, born in Grundy County. They have two children: Agnes and Lawrence. Mr. Olson is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, and gives liberally toward its support. Ever since casting his first vote, Mr. Olson has supported the candidates of the Republican party. He is a hard-working, industrious young man, and his progress has been earned through perseverance and thrift. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 876

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Ransley Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1392 Message Board Post: RANSLEY, William (deceased).—The history of no county would be complete if the record were confined to the deeds of those still living, for it is to those who have gone before that the present generation owes most. This is especially true of Grundy County which has been so developed through the efforts of those who were among its pioneers and early settlers. One of the men whose name is held in honored remembrance was the late William Ransley, who was born February 22, 1817, in the parish of Frendsbury, County Kent, England, a son of William and Sarah Ransley. He spent over three decades of his life in his native land, and then came to the United States on September 17, 1854, reaching New York City. After a stay there that extended until January, 1855, he came on to Grundy County, locating in Vienna Township, February 7, 1855, where he remained until his death on December 27, 1882, at which time he owned 293 acres of land. On November 17, 1870, Mr. Ransley married Dinah Susans, at Milton, Ulster County, N. Y., born at Gravesend, County Kent, England, September 16, 1844, a daughter of William and Dinah (Strightfield) Susans. He died in England, but she came to New York, and later to Illinois, where she died. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ransley were: William J., who was born August 28, 1871, of Vienna Township; Beatrice F., who was born June 2, 1873, now Mrs. George B. Kilmer of Marengo; and Frank S., who was born March 10, 1875. Mr. Ransley served his township as collector and held other offices for he was a man in whom all had implicit confidence, and when he died his locality lost a good citizen, and his family a beloved husband and father. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 888

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Tabler Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1391 Message Board Post: Tabler, David C. (deceased) – The record of a good man's life shows what he accomplished, and continues to exert a beneficent influence over the actions of his fellow creatures long after all that is mortal of him returns to the dust from which it was raised. The late David C. Tabler has been dead for many years, but his memory is tenderly cherished, and the influence of his action remains to aid others in their life struggle. Mr. Tabler was born in Delaware County, O., July 12, 1833, a son of Nathaniel and Mary Ann (Cryder) Tabler, natives of Ohio. The parents came to Aux Sable Township in the early thirties, entering land from the government. The Cryder family is also numbered among the pioneer ones of Grundy County. David C. Tabler grew to manhood in Aux Sable Township, and remained with his father until his marriage, which occurred June 3, 1854, when he was united with Gulia E. McCloud, born in Oneida County, N. Y., October 28, 1834, daughter of John and Paulina ! (Richetson) McCloud, natives of Vermont and New York, who came to Kendall County, Ill., in 1835, driving across country with horses and wagons, the journey consuming six weeks. After his marriage, David C. Tabler spent two years in Saratoga Township, and returning to Aux Sable Township, rented land until 1860. In that year he and his brother Nathaniel bought 120 acres in Aux Sable Township, operating it in partnership for ten years. At that time they divided the property, to which they had added, and David C. Tabler received 126 acres as his share. On it he carried on general farming and stock raising until his death by accident on April 20, 1889. Since this sad event, his widow has resided on the place with her family. Mr. and Mrs. Tabler were the parents of the following children: Mary Eliza, who was born December 29, 1857, died September 28, 1863; Frank Henry, who was born March 13, 1863, died July 18, 1882; Lillian Elma, who was born January 18, 1868, died September 29, 1877; Irvin J., who was born July 13, 1874, died June 11, 1876; and Minnie, who was born December 5, 1878, married on December 23, 1908, William S. Lutzow. Mr. Lutzow was born i! n Seward Township, Kendall County, Ill., a son of George and Johanna (Olson) Lutzow, natives of Germany and Sweden, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Lutzow rent the farm from Mrs. Tabler, Mrs. Lutzow being the only living child of her parents. The family all belong to the Methodist Church and are very prominent in their neighborhood. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 905-906

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Vilt Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1390 Message Board Post: Vilt, John K. – The substitution of the automobile for horse drawn vehicles has given rise to many new and varied branches of business, among them being the caring for these costly cars and supplying the owners as well with supplies of different kinds. In a section like Grundy County, where the roads are admirably adapted for automobile traveling, there is a constantly increasing demand for first class repairing of this class. This being the case, a man of the enterprise and mechanical ability of John K. Vilt of Coal City, Ill., finds plenty of opportunity to conduct a flourishing business in auto repairing, vulcanizing and handling notions and supplies, while at the same time he acts as agent for the Indian motorcycle and automobiles. John K. Vilt was born in Bohemia, March 10, 1885, and the following year was brought to Coal City, Ill., by his parents. The father found employment in the mines at this point, but being crippled in his work, he died in 1911. His wife passed away in 1892, and both are buried at Coal City. They had the following children: Joseph, who is deceased; Mary; Anna; John K., and one who died unnamed in infancy. Growing up in Coal City, Mr. Vilt attended the local schools, and at an early age began working in the mines as a digger. Carefully saving his money, in 1908 he was able to start in business for himself. In order to fit himself for his work, he took a course in automobile repairing at Chicago, and so is prepared to attend to any kind of work that comes his way. His handsome new garage is the finest in this locality, and his patrons appreciate the advantages it offers. In 1906 Mr. Vilt married Antonia Kafton, who was born at Braidwood, Ill., November 4, 1885. Four children have! resulted from this union: Edward, Barbara, Josie and John. Mr. Vilt is a member of the Catholic Church, while in fraternal matters he belongs to the Bohemian lodge and the Foresters. He is very liberal in his political views and is one of the leading young business men of Coal City who certainly deserves the prosperity which has attended him. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 914-915

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Wilson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1389 Message Board Post: Wilson, Joseph A. – The importance of any community is measured by the public spirit of its leading citizens, and judged by this standard. Morris ranks among the foremost cities of its size in the State. Among those who have aided materially in the advancement of the county seat in every line is Joseph A. Wilson, financier, business man and former mayor, and the present supervisor of Morris Township. Mr. Wilson was born in Putnam County, Ill., February 20, 1850, son of Jonathan and Elma C. (Hoyle) Wilson, natives of Union County, Ky., and Belmont County, Ohio. Jonathan Wilson went to Putnam County. Ill., with his parents in 1828, while the lady who afterwards became his wife arrived there in 1833, and there they married and began housekeeping. In 1850 they came to Grundy County, settling on a farm in Vienna Township. In time, Jonathan Wilson became a man of large means, raising cattle on an extensive scale, and he also bought and sold stock and was a veterinary pract! itioner of some note. His death occurred in 1887, following which his widow moved to Morris where she died in 1898. Nine children were born to them, six sons and three daughters, three of whom survive, all residents of Morris: Edith E., Joseph A., and Orville T., the last named being manager of the Morris Grain Company. Joseph A. Wilson grew up on his father's homestead learning how to conduct the farm, and attending the local schools. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-five years old, when he began working land for himself and buying and selling cattle. In those days there was plenty of open prairie on which to herd his cattle, so that the profits were greater, although the prices he received were lower. The first farm owned by Mr. Wilson was in Pulaski County, Ind., but he sold it four years after he bought it, and then purchased land in Saratoga, Aux Sable and Wauponsee Townships, Grundy County, as well in other parts of the State, owning some 1,300 acres in Grundy County alone, and also 400 acres in Jasper County, Iowa. All of this he rents, with the exception of 800 acres which he utilizes for pasturage purposes, also 700 acres in Newton County, Ind. His cattle business is a large one for he handles from 500 to 600 head of cattle annually. Mrs. Wilson owns 1,300 acres of ! land in Grundy County. In 1881 Mr. Wilson moved to Morris from the farm, and in 1893 built a fine frame house containing all modern improvements on the corner of Nettle and Main streets. In addition to his other interests, Mr. Wilson is a director of the Grundy County National Bank and of the Morris Grain company. On March 5, 1879, Mr. Wilson was married to Harriet E. Collins, born in Saratoga Township, daughter of Joshua and Harriet (Cryder) Collins, natives of Queens, N. Y., and Chillicothe, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson became the parents of the following children: Mary E., who is now Mrs. H. Philip Southcomb of Morris; an unnamed babe who died in infancy; Jay Collins, who is at home; and Henry J., who died at the age of seven and one-half months. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Congregational Church. A strong Republican, he has been called upon to represent his ward in the city council and in 1900-02 was elected mayor of Morris. While occupying the executive chair, he gave the city a clean, honest, business-like administration and is regarded as one of the best mayors the city ever had. A man of keen business sense, he has succeeded in whatever he has undertaken, and the city has benefited by his operations. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 926

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Sample Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1388 Message Board Post: Sample, John (deceased). - In reviewing the history of Grundy County the thoughtful observer is struck by the patience and fortitude displayed by the pioneers of this section, who, coming here at a time when hardships were to be encountered on every side, and success was entirely problematical, worked quietly and unceasingly, laboring better than they knew, and producing the Grundy County of today. One of these men who earned the right to he honored as a Grundy County pioneer of the best class was the late John Sample. He was a native of Pennsylvania, as was his wife, Mary McKenzie, she being born in Washington County of that State. He was a son of William Sample, born in the North of Ireland. Mrs. Sample was a daughter of Daniel and Isabelle (Grant) McKenzie, natives of Scotland. John Sample and Mary McKenzie were married in Ross County, Ohio, and commenced farming near South Salem in that county. He was one of the founders of an academy and seminary at that place, and was ! a man of prominence in his community. Attracted by reports of the fertility of land in Grundy County, Ill., John Sample joined a company in September, 1852, which reached there in October of the same year, and he and his wife decided upon Wauponsee Township as a desirable section, and settled on a farm there. There was a little frame house on the place, in the midst of a prairie, and in it they began housekeeping. At that time there were but few neighbors, but they were too busy to get lonely, for their farm of from 700 to 800 acres was entirely unimproved, and they were constantly at work. As time went on Mr. Sample brought more and more of his land under cultivation, and became an extensive raiser of horses, and also carried on general farming. Soon after his arrival in the summer of 1853, he started a Sunday school in a small log schoolhouse in the neighborhood, which was the first Sunday school ever held in that town. Although a Presbyterian, as there was no church of his denomination there, he became affili! ated with the Congregational Church of Morris. While much interested in politics, he was not an office seeker. His death occurred in 1864, after a long and useful life. His widow survived him until 1883, when she passed away at the age of eighty-nine years. There were ten children in the family, three of whom died in Ohio. Five children and the parents died on the farm in Grundy County. Two daughters, Narcissa and Ruth, removed to Morris in 1901, and spent their remaining years there. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 897

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Davidson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1387 Message Board Post: Davidson, Robert M. J. – A citizen of Grundy County who has returned to agricultural pursuits after a number of years spent in other lines of endeavor and who has made a success of his ventures is Robert M. J. Davidson, whose well-cultivated property is located in Saratoga Township. Mr. Davidson was born in the township in which he now resides, April 12, 1855, and is a son of Robert J. and Harriet M. (Taylor) Davidson. Robert J. Davidson was born in 1800 in the north of Ireland, and when twenty-two years of age emigrated to the United States, locating at Newburgh, N. Y., where he was married to Harriet M. Taylor, a native of Pennsylvania. He was engaged in the livery business in New York until 1848, when he came to Morris, Ill., by water, and here for some years was employed as a coal miner. Subsequently he moved to a farm of 112 acres, adjoining the city, in Morris Township, and there continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits up to the time of death, whic! h occurred November 28, 1868. His widow passed away in 1904. They were the parents of these children: Evelyn, who married Cornelius Condon, of Morris; Sarah, who married James Cummings of Seattle, Wash.; Robert M. J., and Belle, who married Thomas Lindsey, of Seattle, Wash. Robert M. J. Davidson received his education in the public schools of Saratoga Township, and at the age of twenty years began to divide his time between the mines in the winter months and the home farm in the summer. He continued to be so engaged until November, 1897, when he went to Sandcoulee, Mont., with his eldest son, and in May of the following year the rest of the family joined him. After four years spent in mining, he returned to Grundy County, and settled on the home place, where he owned forty-one acres, and subsequently added to this by purchase thirty acres. He also rents considerable property, and now has 300 acres under cultivation. His ventures have proven successful because of his industry and well-directed effort, and he is accounted one of the most substantial men of his township. Mr. Davidson was married August 20, 1877, to Miss Mary A. King, who was born in England, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Hardy) King. Mr. King was a miner by occupation and at various times worked in Pennsylvania, Illinois and Montana. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson have had the following children: William, a resident of Stockett, Mont.; Samuel, residing at Joliet, Ill.; Max J., of Morris; Thomas and Truman, both of Morris; Eliza and Louisa, both of whom died in infancy; and Elmer, Leslie, Morris and Mary all at home. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. In his political views he is a Democrat. A useful and public-spirited citizen, he has ever been ready to give his time or means in promoting movements for the general welfare, and few citizens of Saratoga Township are held in greater esteem. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 802

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Cunnea Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1386 Message Board Post: Cunnea, James (deceased), who was associated with the earlier banking history of Morris, was born in Ireland, January 6, 1810, a son of Patrick and Isabella (Brown) Cunnea. Although the family came to the United States in 1846, it was not until 1866 that they located at Morris. Here James Cunnea with his father conducted a loan office, and in 1872 bought the First National Bank of Seneca, Ill., and removing it to Morris changed the name to that of the First National Bank of Morris. Mr. Cunnea was a Democrat in political faith. He married in Ireland, March 4, 1834, Ann Glackin, and they had twelve children, eight of whom grew to maturity, namely: Thomas, John, James, George A., Isabella, Maria, Catherine and Anna. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 799

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/1384 Message Board Post: PEACOCK, Irvin David. - The life of the modern farmer is full of interest, for he has to be ever on the alert in order to make his land yield its full value and pay a good percentage on his investment of time and money. The time has long passed when the farmer was willing to labor long and late just to secure a living. Agriculturalists now conduct their farms as any other business is carried on for fair and reasonable profit, and that they are succeeding the number of wealthy farmers proves conclusively. One of the men of Grundy County, who has shown wisdom in selecting farming as his life work, is Irvin David Peacock of Nettle Creek Township. He was born in Erienna Township, September 26, 1887, a son of Leander A. and Emma D. (Towsley) Peacock. Growing up on his father’s homestead, Mr. Peacock not only attended the district schools of his township, but the Morris High school, and later took a business course at the Metropolitan Commercial college at Joliet. Mr. Peacock remained with his parents until his marriage which occurred February 22, 1910, when he was united by Rev. Schneider with Ella M. Caldwell, born in Nettle Creek Township, February 27, 1887, a daughter of William L. and Mary A. (Charlton) Caldwell. Mrs. Peacock attended the Morris High school. Following marriage, Mr. Peacock moved to Nettle Creek Township, settling on a farm of 160 acres, on which he carries on general farming, with excellent results. He and his wife attend the Methodist Episcopal Church, and contribute towards its support. A Republican, Mr. Peacock has given his party a loyal support and served his township as road commissioner. A good farmer and excellent business man, Mr. Peacock is rapidly forging to the front and is justly! numbered among the efficient men of his township. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 880

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Veronda Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1383 Message Board Post: Veronda, Louis (deceased) – Among the men who have won their way to the front in Grundy County through the medium of their own efforts, Louis Veronda holds a deservedly high place. In the capacity of city treasurer of Coal City, Ill., he is showing himself possessed of executive ability as well as high ideals in regard to the duties of citizenship, while in business circles here he has been known for ten years as an agent for all the leading steamship companies. Mr. Veronda was born in Italy, January 21, 1871, and died June 12, 1913. Like many others of his countrymen, who could in their own hand see but years of toil ahead of them, with but little opportunity for gaining more than a modest livelihood, Mr. Veronda decided to try his fortunes in the United States, and accordingly emigrated to this country in 1893. In his native land he had attended the public schools and had been a miner, and this vocation he adopted in his new surroundings, at once securing employment in the mines of Carbon Hill, Ill. By the year 1901 he had accumulated enough capital to establish himself in the saloon business, and subsequently he was identified also with the ice and sawdust business, and finally became an agent for the leading steamboat lines, being thus engaged at the time of death. He made a success of his ventures and invested his means in real estate and owned 160 acres of good farming land in Horton County, North Dakota, as well as some valuable city lots in Gary, Ind. For ten years he acted in the capacity of not! ary public and participated actively in all movements of his fellow citizens. A Republican in his political views on national affairs, in city and county matters he was liberal. In 1913 he was appointed city treasurer of Coal City, and this position he continued to occupy for one year, giving general satisfaction to all concerned. He was a stockholder and director in the Illinois Aero Construction Company. Fraternally he was connected with the Foresters of America, in which he was chief ranger, the Italian Society of the White Tie, the Christopher Columbus Society, in which he was a leader, and the Alpina, of which he was an honorary member. In 1898 Mr. Veronda was married to Miss Eva Querio, who was born at Braidwood, Grundy County, Ill., August 21, 1882, and to this union there were born three children: Andrew, born August 1, 1900; Louis, born June 21, 1901; and Katie, born January 13, 1905. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 914

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Karns Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1382 Message Board Post: Karns, Thomas – Too much cannot be said in praise of the enterprising Grundy County farmers who have brought their calling up to its present high standing and developed to an almost perfect condition, the property they own. One of these progressive agriculturists is Thomas Kearns(sic) of Highland Township, born in County Wexford, Ireland, August 26, 1865, a son of Michael and Mary (Dugan) Karns, both of whom passed away in Ireland where they had been born and reared. In 1888 Thomas Karns came to Grundy County and began working as a farm hand, thus continuing for three years. For the next twelve years he rented land, but in 1904 was able to buy 120 acres in Highland Township, to which he has since added eighty acres so that he now has 200 acres all of which he operates with very desirable results. Mr. Karns married Bridget Kelley, born in County Wexford, Ireland, who came to the United States in girlhood. Mr. and Mrs. Karns became the parents of three children: George, who is at home; Leo, who is of Bloomington, Ill., and Ella. Mrs. Karns died January 7, 1904, having been a faithful wife and mother. Mr. Karns is a Catholic. Politically he is a Democrat, but has never sought office, being too much occupied with his own affairs. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 845

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Lamson Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1381 Message Board Post: Lamson, S. Clifford – The substantiality of the business interests of Morris is evinced by the individuals who are conserving them. There are here gathered as fine a class of business men as can be found in any community of similar size in the country, and one of them is S. Clifford Lamson, who is in the tin and sheet metal line. Mr. Lamson was born at Neoga, Cumberland County, Ill., July 30, 1869, a son of Thomas D. and Caroline (Hildreth) Lamson, natives of Switzerland County, Ind. Thomas D. Lamson was a carpenter by trade. During the Civil War he served his country in the Third Indiana Cavalry, and was a brave and efficient soldier. After the close of the war, he moved to Illinois where he engaged in a wagonmaking business and later on in life was a hardware merchant at Cowden, Ill. He died in the spring of 1908, his wife having passed away in 1877. After the death of this mother the home was broken up, and S. Clifford Lamson lived with his paternal grandmother until he was fourteen years old. At that age he returned to his father, and attended school until he was sixteen years old, when he began working for himself on farms, thus continuing for two years. At that time he began learning the tinsmithing trade at Serena, Ill., there remaining until 1892. Following that date he worked at his trade at different points throughout Illinois, and in January, 1903, located at Morris, to engage with Cronin Bros., as tinner, having charge of their tin shop. On Nov. 1, 1911, he embarked in a tin and sheet metal business for himself, and has built up a very fine business, gives employment to two men and his contracts are increasing, as his work is entirely satisfactory in every respect. On June 15, 1892, Mr. Lamson was married to Ida B. McInturf of Serena, Ill., a daughter of Adolph McInturf. Mr. and Mrs. Lamson are the parents of two children: Gail Clifford, who was born November 8, 1896; and Leila Mildred, who was born May 28, 1900. Politically Mr. Lamson is a Republican, but as yet he has not been active in public matters as he has centered his efforts on his private affairs. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 849-850

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Elerding Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1380 Message Board Post: Elerding, Conrad, one of the retired business men of Morris, was born at Northville, La Salle County, Ill., December 15, 1844, a son of Henry and Mary Ann (Hollenback) Elerding, natives of Westphalia, Germany, and Muskingum County, Ohio, respectively. The father came to the United States in 1830, bringing with him a vivid recollection of the Napoleonic wars, and for some time worked as a millwright until he built a saw and grist mill at Sheridan, Ill. He also constructed the bridge across the Fox river that was later taken away by the floods. In 1858, he came to Morris, and built the Grundy County grist-mill. He and his wife were married near Newark, Ill., Mrs. Elerding being a daughter of Clark and Anne (Blizzard) Hollenback, who were born on the south fork of the Potomac river in Virginia. They were early settlers of Kendall County, locating on the present site of Newark during 1832. Owing to the disturbances occasioned by the Black Hawk War, these hardy pioneers wal! ked to Port Ottawa for protection. Becoming anxious with regard to conditions at his little homestead, Mr. Hollenback decided to return. As he neared his farm, two Indians on horseback pursued him, but with a cunning equal to their own, he made them think by calling upon an imaginary party, that he was not alone, and finally they turned off and rode in another direction, much to the excellent man's relief. As soon as it was safe, Mr. Hollenback brought his family back to their home, and there they lived until he died. Mrs. Hollenback was a large woman of powerful build, and her heart was in proportion, many of the early settlers owing much to her for her kindly offices. She lived to the advanced age of ninety years, and was beloved by a wide circle of friends. Mr. Elerding died at South Haven, Mich., in 1900, as after the death of his wife, at Morris, in 1883, he lived about with his children. They were as follows: Malissa, William and Sarah, who are deceased; Conrad! ; Louise, who is Mrs. Joseph Trout, of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Annie, who was Mrs. Frank Bartlet, died in 1878, leaving two children, Guy and Aribel; George B., who is at Bellingham, Wash.; Charles, of Maxville, Kans.; Edward, who is of Charleston, Ill.; and Westley, who died in infancy. Conrad Elerding attended the common schools of his district, and remained with his father until his marriage, when he bought the old grist-mill from his father, and in 1888 changed it into an oat mill, and conducted it as such very successfully until 1900, when it was burned. In 1901 he replaced his plant, erecting it at Morris, and conducted it as the Morris Oatmeal factory until 1905, when he rented it to the Quaker Oatmeal Company, since which time he has lived retired. On December 21, 1876, Mr. Elerding married Mrs. Eliza J. (Ridings) Elerding, widow of his brother William, by whom she had one son, G. William who resides at Bitter Root, Mont. He married Elva A. Lloyd, and they have three children: Frank, born July 28, 1897; Adelaide, born April 23, 1902; and Wayne, born April 10, 1904. Mrs. Conrad Elerding was born at Hillsboro, O., October 15, 1845, a daughter of John P. and Rebecca (Stone) Ridings, born at Winchester, Va., in 1803, and Middletown, Va., in 1810, respectively. The grandparents, Peter and Mary (Brotherington) Ridings, were born at Liverpool, England, while the maternal grandparents, Philip and Christina (Crum) Stone were natives of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Ridings married in Virginia, and in 1832 emigrated to Ohio, where he first worked for fifty cents per day, but owing to the cheapness of foodstuffs, lived comfortably. In 1858, Mr. and Mrs. Ridings moved to Wauponsee Township, Grundy County, where they lived until dea! th claimed them, the father dying March 4, 1885, and the mother on March 12, 1892. Mrs. Elerding attended the public schools and Hillsboro Female College. She has been a life long Methodist. In politics Mr. Elerding is a Republican, but has not sought office. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 807

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Winsor Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1379 Message Board Post: Winsor, Clarence Ray – If every farming section of the country showed as good condition as Grundy County, the cost of living would be materially reduced. This locality is producing a large amount of food stuffs owing to the progressive spirit of its agriculturalists, and among them one worthy of special note is Clarence Ray Winsor of Norman Township. Mr. Winsor was born in Norman Township, November 19, 1885, son of John and Sarah (Putt) Winsor, and grandson of Thomas and Martha Winsor and John Putt, the grandparents on both sides coming from England, while the parents were natives of Saratoga Township, Grundy County, Ill. John Putt located first at Lisbon, Kendall County, Ill., but later came to Saratoga Township, Grundy County, Ill., where he established himself as a brick and tile manufacturer, but later bought land in Norman Township, and operated it until his retirement to Morris, where his death occurred. John Winsor and Sarah Putt were married in Kendall County, but commenced their married life on a farm in Norman Township, where Mr. Winsor owned 200 acres. He erected the buildings now standing, and further improved the farm, living upon it until his death January 9, 1907. His widow only survived him until February 3d, of the same year. The children of this excellent couple were: Wilbur, who lives at Peabody, Kas.; Guy, who died at the age of one year and three months; Leda, who is Mrs. E. B. Reeves, of Norman Township; Clarence Ray; and Otto T. and Chester P., who are on the home place. Clarence Ray Winsor grew up on the farm owned by his father, and alternated attending the rural school with agricultural work. When his father died, the farm was left to the five living children, and the three younger sons rented it for two years, and then bought it, and are now conducting it in partnership, and are specializing on Percheron registered horses, Poland-China hogs and Shorthorn cattle. Their farm is one of the best known in the township, and they are justly numbered among the substantial agriculturalists of Grundy County. On June 21, 1907, Clarence R. Winsor was married to Georgia Aker, born in Vienna Township, this county, daughter of James and Cora (Passage) Aker, natives of Vienna Township and Wisconsin, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Winsor have one son, Gordon Aker, born April 21, 1908, and one daughter, Alice H. Mr. Winsor belongs to the Zion Methodist Church, of which he has been trustee since 1909. A Republican, he has served as school trustee since 1909. Mrs. Winsor was graduated from the Morris High school and taught school for three years in Vienna Township prior to her marriage. Otto T. Winsor, who was born November 17, 1886, was married February 9, 1909, to Mabel H. Aker, born in Vienna Township, a sister of Mrs. C. R. Winsor. Mr. and Mrs. O. T. Winsor have a daughter, Dorothy E., born September 16, 1910. Chester P. Winsor, the youngest of the three Winsor brothers, was born July 17, 1893. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 926-927