Posted on: Knox Co. Il Query Forum Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Il/Knox/871 Surname: ------------------------- Re: John Thompson, Altona, Knox co; he came here from ohio via Indiana and squatted on the school section of Walnut Grove twp and was forced to buy his home,etc when the "school section" was auctioned off. He was NOT a veteran of war of 1812 (some historys say he was) but his sons served in the Civil war. Lapiere was platted along the expected right of way of the Military TRact RR (later became CB&Q/BN). Amos Ward was one of the early directors/stock holder of the MTRR so Piatt had inside info. Mr. Willards store in the NW corner of main & depot is still operating in 2001! It was the only store for several years between Kewanne and G'berg-got lots of business while the MTRR was being built. You can find further info and sources for the abovc in my "book" in the G'berg library-"a history of altona and walnut grove twp" a plagerized and original work. hugh /ps binlaw is hal bern-he needs more swedes to find their ancestors since he has retired and has time.