Frank W. Brooks, who is engaged in the banking business in Blandinsville, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Henderson County, Ill. October 1, 1847, and there received his education. He is a son of BENJAMIN F. AND ELIZA (KERTZ) BROOKS, of whom the former was born in Geneseo, N. Y., and the latter in Harrisburg, Pa. His father was engaged in the lumber business at Oquawka, Ill., and Hannibal, MO., but is now deceased. The mother now resides with Mr. Brooks. The subject of this Sketch started out for himself in the lumber line about the year 1877, and continued thus for fifteen years before he became interested in banking. Before establishing himself in this trade in Blandinsville, he was likewise occupied in Sciota and Henderson, Ill. In the banking business he has been associated with Grigsby Bros. & Company for ten years. On October 29, 1878, Mr. Brooks was married to LIZZIE GILLIHAN, a native of Blandinsville and a daughter of WILLIAM W. GILLIHAN; her mother was a MISS PORTER. This union resulted in three children, namely: JESSIE E., (MRS. E. GRIGSBY); FLORENCE O. AND CHAUNCEY G. Politically, Mr. Brooks is a Republican, and fraternally, is affiliated with the A. F. & A. M., being a member of Blandinsville Lodge, No. 233; Blandinsville Chapter, No. 208, and St. Omer Commandery, No. 15, Burlington, Iowa. He is very favorably known throughout McDonough County as an able and successful business man.

Not only are the agricultural fortunes of McDonough County inseparably associated with those bearing the name of Brooking, but practically every war of importance in the country which has caused the spirit of independence to rise with renewed strength above the smoke of its battle-fields, has counted among its valiant soldiers men of of this family of pioneers. William T. Brooking, a retired farmer of Macomb, all but ten of whose eighty-three years have been passed within the boundaries of this county, upholds the character and ideals of his forefathers. Born May 6, 1824, in Union County, KY., he is a son of THOMAS A. and grandson of THOMAS V. BROOKING, both natives of Richmond, Va., and the latter of whom married ELIZABETH SHERWIN. His mother, MARY LOUISE (THRESHLY) BROOKING, was born on a farm near Frankfort, KY., a daughter of WILLIAM AND LUCY (UPSHAW) THRESHLY, natives of Kentucky and England, respectively. The father of Thomas V. Brooking and the father of his wife, Elizabeth Sherwin, were both Colonels in the War of the American Revolution. Thomas A. Brooking and his father also shouldered muskets in the War of 1812. Thomas A. moved in early manhood to Kentucky, married there, and in 1834 went overland to McDopnough County, Ill. There he found silent prairies, uncrossed by fences or directing roads. The red men's teepee still adorned the landscape. Chicago, then the mart of the Central West, was a log-hut settlement, populated by about one hundred whites and half-breeds and seventy soldiers. Yet the Virginian's heart quailed not, and he bravely took up his life of self-sacrifice and consecration to the unfolding of the resources around him. Entering eighty acres of land, he added thereto until he owned at one time 500 acres. A man of education and refinement, he engaged in school teaching for one year at Macomb, and he subsequently established a brick manufactory on the site of the present Catholic cemetery. His farms were his chief concern and most ready source of income, however, and upon his retirement from active life to the village of Macomb, he was the possessor of large wealth - as wealth was counted in those days. His death occurred in February, 1858, while yet men were arriving who called themselves pioneers, yet who could never realize the trials and privations to which he himself had been subjected. He was the parent of four sons and seven daughters. William T. Brooking lived at home until he was twenty-six years old - or until his marriage, March 7, 1850, to LOUISIANA WALKER, who was born in Indiana in 1833. Up to this time his life had been devoted to hard work, and even the meager schooling of the early subscription institutions was acquired with difficulty, owing to the tasks which pressed around his youth. A break in the monotony of farming presented itself in the disturbance at Nauvoo, in 1845, when the Mormons were driven out of the town. Mr. Brooking was on the scene at the time, but taking his departure at eleven in the morning, he escaped the riot which followed the killing of JOSEPH SMITH and HYRUM SMITH the same evening. With his young wife he established his home on 160 acres of land across the road from his father's homestead, but disposed of this tract in 1864, and soon after purchased 270 acres of the old place, upon which he moved in the spring of 1866. In 1885 he thought to retire permanently from farming, sold all his land, and engaged in the grocery business in Macomb. The peace of the country again called him in 1893, and he settled on a farm recently purchased, consisting of eighty acres, which remained his home until retiring from active life to Macomb in 1898. While no partisan, Mr. Brooking has always been a stalwart Republican. His official services extended back to the early history of the county. In 1870 he was Assessor of Macomb Township, and for twenty years was a member of the School Board. For many years he has been a prominent and popular member of the Masonic fraternity. The shadow of loss fell across his life January 5, 1902, when the wife who had shared his struggles and successes for fifty-two years passed away. There were six children born of this union: W. A.; LUCIAN THRESHLY; DOLLY, wife of W. M. WINSLOW; two who died in infancy, and one who died at the age of twelve years. Mr. Brooking's career has given direction and character to the development of Macomb Township. His undertakings have been invested with conservatism and resulted in substantial success. As an agriculturist and business man, his well known integrity and good judgment have materially smoothed his path, and brought him an unassailable confidence. He is kindly in manner and generous of heart, and those who have known him for many years are still his friends and well wishers.

Alexander V. Brooking, formerly a prominent breeder of live-stock, in which he dealt extensively, and a well-known resident of Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born February 25, 1829, at Sulphur Springs, KY., where he enjoyed the advantages of the primitive schools of early days. His father, THOMAS BROOKING, a son of THOMAS V. BROOKING, was a native of Richmond, VA., and his mother, MARY (THRESHLEY) BROOKING, was born near Lexington, KY. In 1834, Alexander V. Brooking came with his parents to Macomb, where his father taught school and practiced law. The latter bought a land claim of 150 acres, which he worked, teaching school during the winter seasons. The subject of this sketch is the ninth in a family of twelve children born to his parents. He remained with his father until he was twenty-two years of age, and in connection with the latter, increased the extent of the farm to 550 acres. He took half of the farm, and, in 1854, bought the remainder from his father, and lived there eleven years. In 1864, he came to Macomb, where he took charge of the Randolph Hotel, which he still retains. Having sold the homestead, and buying another farm, he engaged in stock-raising and feeding horses. He retired from the business in 1904, having paid over $9,000 for fine stallions, which he brought to his place (the Chickamauga Stock Farm) two and one-half miles from Macomb. Mr. Brooking was married August 27, 1851, to ELIZABETH H. RANDOLPH, a native of Ohio, who attended public school in Illinois. She died in August 1862, leaving three children - THOMAS A., MELVINA R. and ANNA LOUISA. On May 1, 1864, Mr. Brooking married MARY E. BUTLER, who was born in Illinois. The issue from this union was FREDERICK V., ETHELIN, ESTELLA V., BRAINERD B., and WINNIE VIOLA. In his political views, Mr. Brooking is a Republican. Fraternally, he belongs to the Masonic Order (Macomb Lodge No. 17 and Morse Chapter No. 19) and the A. O. U. W. His career has been long, active and successful, and he is now enjoying a period of well-earned repose.

John M. Brant, head of the firm of J. M. BRANT & COMPANY, which is engaged in the machine business in Bushnell, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Hamilton, Ill., February 24, 1863. The mental training of his youthful years was received in the public schools of Quincy, Ill. Mr. Brant first applied himself to farm work, which he followed until he was eighteen years of age, when he went into the machine business. In 1899 he came to Bushnell and opened a shop and sales room, handling all kinds of heavy machinery. He deals in engines, threshers, clover-hullers, sowing machines and well drillers, besides doing the work of rebuilding and repairing. The plant furnishes employment for fifteen men, besides those who travel for the firm. Through the energy and ability of Mr. Brant, the firm has acquired a large volume of business, which is steadily increasing. In 1885, Mr. Brant was united in marriage with LURINDA D. BENNETT, who was born and schooled at Sonora, Ill. Four children - NELLIE, ETHEL, JENNIE BLANCHE and BENNETT - resulted from this union. Mr. Brant's fraternal affiliation is with the K. of P.

In the death of Edward D. Brinton, May 16, 1905, McDonough County lost one of its early and most zealous pioneers, and one who embodied, in his excellence of character and sincerity of purpose, much that was noble and worthy of emulation. A lad of thirteen when he arrived here in 1844, his career was marked by that steady progress which accompanies the labor of the clear-headed and industrious man of average ability, a man of simple tastes and deep moral convictions, desiring always the best interests of the community in which he lived. The Brinton forefathers dwelt for may years in Pennsylvania, the home of EDWARD BRINTON, and JAMES BRINTON, his son, grandfather and father of Edward D. The grandfather (Edward) served in the Revolutionary War under General Washington, his widow drawing a pension up to the time of her death for his services. James Brinton was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, as was also his wife, ISABELLA (HANSLEY) BRINTON. They were a family of five children, and Edward D., the second oldest, was born on the battle-field of Brandywine (of Revolutionary fame), Chester County, July 20, 1831. Courage and ambition were qualities which combined to disquiet the heart of James Brinton, leading him from the settled condition in the Quaker State to the far-off prairies of Illinois, where, in the fall of 1844, he settled in Astoria, Fulton County. He soon afterward bought a farm near the town, but was not permitted to realize his dreams of large ownership, as death claimed him April 15, 1853, his wife surviving him until March 30, 1886. Edward D. profited by the public schools of both Pennsylvania and Illinois, and after his father's death succeeded to the management of the home farm. He lived with his mother until his marriage, April 13, 1870, to LOUISE HORNER, of York County, PA., after which he purchased a forty-acre farm adjoining the old place. On February 26, 1891, he bought and moved to the farm where the widow now lives, the place consisting of two hundred acres, on Sections 23 and 24, Eldorado Township. He was engaged in general farming, and also derived a liberal income from the raising of cattle, hogs and sheep. He was methodical and painstaking, and his house, out-buildings, implements and general improvements evidenced the man who put not off until tomorrow what was better accomplished today. While thoroughly absorbed in his home tasks, he yet took a keen interest in the general affairs of the township, upheld its best political standards, and loyally filled the offices of Road Commissioner and Justice of the peace, to which he was elected on the Democratic ticket. For years he was associated with the Masonic fraternity and in his life bore testimony to its beautiful and inspiring teachings. Mrs. Brinton, who came from York County, Pa., with her parents in 1854, settling in Fulton County, this state, has, with the assistance of her children, conducted the home farm since the death of her husband. She is the mother of eight sons and daughters: JOHN H., BELL, EVA ANNA (wife of BROWER PONTIOUS, and residing on a farm near Adair, Ill.); PHOEBE, DOCIA, GEORGE E., MILTON M. and NELLIE D. The Brinton home is one which welcomes progress and enlightenment, and which brings within its doors the diversions and pleasures, as well as the labors, of country life. Mr. Brinton himself was a promoter of education and peaceful existence, and a believer in keeping pace with the happenings in the world about him. He had a large store of information concerning the early days of the county, and he liked well to recall the his martial experience during the Civil War, in which he served in Company F, One Hundred and Third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, from October 2, 1862, until the close of the hostilities.

Greetings, I am seeking information on the families of two brothers who settled in McDonough Co. Both were born in MD, purchased land in Carroll Co., OH, and were very involved with Scott's Methodist Church in Bethel Twp, McDonough Co. JOHN J. FOSTER was in the 1840 McDonough Co. census. FREDERICK LEVI FOSTER was in the 1840 Schuyler Co. census. BOTH were in the 1850 McDonough Co. census. John J. purchased the Pleasant Valley Mill near Colchester, about 1856. Many members of his family [and the Hendrickson family he married into] are buried in Scott's cemetery, associated with the above mentioned church. I have a lot of information on these two and their families, but there are still many gaps which I am seeking to fill. Also, I am still seeking their parents in MD. I have a web page detailing my information on these brothers and their families. It is at the URL below, for any who care to look at it. I appreciate any help. Thanks. Doug Showalter Rev. Dr. Doug Showalter's Email and Web sites: dougshow@cape.com [home] minister@cape.com [church] - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ FORGIVENESS FORUM: http://www.vsg.cape.com/~dougshow/index.html THE EXCHANGE FOR SERMON AND WORSHIP IDEAS: http://www.vsg.cape.com/~dougshow/second-site/index.html DOUG'S RESEARCH PAGES (Genealogy): http://www.vsg.cape.com/~dougshow/fourth-site/index.html FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF FALMOUTH: http://www.vsg.cape.com/~1congfal/index.html BARNSTABLE ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST: http://www.vsi.cape.com/~barnucc/index.html

The career of Isaac N. Boyd, Cashier of the Bank of Colchester, is characterized by rare devotion to high purposes, and more especially to those civic enterprises which tend to the enlightenment of a community of which he is a product and development. In his makeup are the best qualities of an Irish-Scotch ancestry. His great-grandfather, born in Ireland in 1731, blazed a new path for subsequent bearers of the name by immigrating to America before the Revolutionary War, and his son, WILLIAM BOYD SR, the next in line of succession, took up his abode in Northampton County, PA., where the second WILLIAM BOYD JR, father of Isaac N., was born, leaving there at the age of eight years and emigrating to Highland County, Ohio, where he lived until coming to Illinois. In 1853, William Jr., married MARTHA C. VEST, a native of Tennessee and granddaughter of a Scottish voyageur who early claimed the protection of the Stars and Stripes. In 1839 William Boyd came to Illinois and eventually located in Colchester, where his son, Isaac N., was born October 24 1860. In his youth, Isaac N. Boyd felt the pressure of necessity, and recognized the utter impossibility of rising from his narrow groove save through his unaided efforts. He was of studious habits, and, appreciating the value of mental training as a general business asset, succeeded in gaining an education in the Colchester public schools, finishing at the Branch Normal School of Macomb. During the following four years his knowledge was turned to good account as a teacher in McDonough and Hancock Counties, Ill., and he then turned his attention to learning the barber's trade, which he followed for about twenty years. He invested his humble and useful calling with thoroughness and honesty, and while establishing a credit which was to be of immense benefit to him later on, aspired to a yet broader life and took an important part in general town affairs. Stanchly (sic) on the side of the Democracy, Mr. Boyd has supported this political platform for the past quarter of a century, or since casting his first presidential vote. He was an Alderman of Colchester several years, Police Magistrate four years, and was defeated for Supervisor in 1902. He was elected Mayor of Colchester in April, 1905, and is now filling this office in a town having a Republican majority of one hundred and twenty. Ever since its organization in 1895, he has been a member of the Board of Education of Colchester, has been Secretary of the Board for the past ten years, and in the history of that organization has never missed a meeting. Mr. Boyd is a believer in social diversions, and is emphatic in his support of fraternal organizations, being a member of the Colchester Lodge No. 469, A. F. & A. M.; the Colchester Chapter No. 121; the Eastern Star, of which his wife is also a member; Good Will Lodge No. 91, K. of P., of which he is Deputy Grand Chancellor; and the Court of Honor. In 1902, Mr. Boyd stepped into his present position as Cashier of the Bank of Colchester. He represents a number of reliable insurance companies, and is Secretary of the Colchester Building and Loan Association. There are few enterprises of importance in the town to which he has not lent material or moral support, and his business sagacity and forethought are regarded as a valuable municipal possession. He is a member and Trustee of the Universalist Church, and a teacher in the Sunday school. The wife of Mr. Boyd, whose maiden name was MARY WAGSTAFF, is a native of the vicinity of St. Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd are the parents of four children: CHARLES WAYNE, BONNIE B., NELLIE AND TONA. As one of the foremost men of the community, Mr. Boyd has led an active and well directed life, has drawn around him friends who admire his character and depend upon his judgment, and has laid the foundation for many years of future prominence and usefulness.

Tillman L. Bowen, who is among the oldest of the pioneer farmers of Chalmers Township, McDonough County, Ill., and certainly one of the most highly respected, was born in the township named, on the farm where he still lives, on January 28, 1832, and here utilized the meager opportunities of the primitive schools of that period. His father, TRUMAN BOWEN, was a native of Indiana, and his mother, NANCY (LEWIS) BOWEN, was born in Columbus, Ohio. Truman Bowen came to McDonough County in 1831 and entered 280 acres of land, which he was engaged in clearing at the time of his death, in that same year. He was buried in the old cemetery west of Macomb, only one burial having previously been made there. Tillman L. Bowen, who was the youngest of eleven children, lived with his mother until her death in 1858. He and his brother, Jesse, bought 200 acres of the farm from the other heirs, retaining 100 acres for himself. To this he added fifty-seven acres, and continued to live on the home place. He notes the fact that in his early youth one gallon of hominy supplied the children of nine families with food for one day. After a while he made a trip with ox-teams to the Salmon River gold mines in Idaho, being six months on the way. Eighteen months later he returned and remained at home until 1884, when, in an effort to improve the health of his wife who was sick with consumption, he took her and his family to California. He reached that state December 17, 1884, and went by stage to Jacksonville, Ore., a journey of 210 miles, which consumed three days and two nights. The death of Mrs. Bowen occurred October 12, 1885. Mr. Bowen continued to live there until the latter part of 1887, when he brought his family back to the old home, where he remained until 1897 engaged in farming. At that period he bought a hack, and with a team of mules drove to Maryville, MO. There he sold the outfit, and with two of his sons and a neighbor's boy, took a train to Boise City, Idaho. While prospecting here and there in Idaho and Southeastern Oregon, Mr. Bowen found one of his sons at a place named Peril. They sojourned in that region two years, Mr. Bowen spending most of the time in Jackson County, Ore., engaged in handling fruit with the rest of the company. At the end of two years, with his two sons, he returned to the home farm, where he has since remained. On October 18, 1855, occurred the marriage of Mr. Bowen with LYDIA ANN RICH, who was a native of Ohio, where, in her youth, she was educated in the public schools. The offspring of their union was as follows: WILLIAM TRUMAN; NANCY D. (MRS. ROBERT WILSON), of Oregon; FRANCES BELZORA (MRS. MCGRAW), of Arizona; EMMA, who died in infancy; JOHN W. of Colorado; HENRY E., of Oregon; and G. HOWARD AND LEWIS, who are with their father. In politics, Mr. Bowen is a Democrat. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace for twenty years, for a number of years served as School Director, and was Highway Commissioner three years. The religious connection of Mr. Bowen is with the methodist Episcopal Church. The subject of this sketch can look back over his long and busy life with little of regret. As a man and as a citizen he has done his duty and the consciousness of enjoying the implicit confidence and sincere respect of the entire community attends his declining years.

George L. Bostwick, a veteran of the Civil War, who is successfully engaged in the lumber business in Prairie City, McDonough County, Ill., was born in the vicinity of Greenbush, Warren County, Ill., on March 16, 1844. He is a son of ALANSON AND ABIGAIL (CRISSEY) BOSTWICK, natives of Connecticut, the father born at New Canaan in that state in 1814. He was one of the pioneer settlers of Illinois, to which state he came about 1838, locating near Greenbush. In New Canaan, Conn., he was married to Abigail, a daughter of ABRAHAM CRISSEY. After remaining in Greenbush for two years, he went back to Connecticut, where he also staid (sic) two years. He then returned to Greenbush, where he followed farming until his death in 1876. His wife, who was born in 1816, passed away in 1845. Mr. Bostwick enlisted in early manhood in the Eighty-third Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served three years. After he returned from the war he became a pupil at Lombard College, Galesburg, and also took a course in the Quincy Business College. Before entering the army he attended the district school in his neighborhood, and Greenbush Academy. He came to Prairie City in 1878,, and in connection with Mr. Crissey, bought out the lumber concern of A. BURR. The purchasing firm was known as CRISSEY & BOSTWICK until 1884, when Mr. Bostwick bought Mr. Crissey's interest, and has since conducted the business alone. On December 29, 1878, Mr. Bostwick was united in marriage with MINTA L. ROUNDS, a native of Ohio. The children resulting from this union are VICTOR A. AND MABEL C. Politically, Mr. Bostwick is a Republican. He has served one term as Village Trustee, and was elected school director in 1900. He is regarded as one of the most substantial and progressive business men in McDonough County, and has built up a flourishing trade.

Edgar Bolles, M.D., who was for a score of years a successful physician, of high repute, in Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Sandusky, Ohio January 12, 1837. He was a son of WILLIAM K. AND SARAH (WEST) BOLLES, of whom the former was born in New London, Conn., in 1807 and the latter in Hillsdale, N. Y., in the same year. Being desirous of bettering their fortunes they journeyed to LaGrange County, Ind., making the trip in an old-fashioned lumber wagon with an ox-team. They discovered, however, that the new region was much infested with malaria and chills and fever, and therefore returned to Hillsdale, N. Y. Remaining there about one year, they came to Blandinsville, Ill., in 1853, and moved to Emmet Township, Mcdonough County, in 1866. The subject of this sketch remained on the farm with his father until he was twenty-one years old, assisting in the farm work during the summer and attending district school during the winter. On attaining his majority he entered the seminary at Blandinsville, where he studied two years. He then taught school and worked in various ways in order to secure the means to pursue a medical course. In 1863 he came to Macomb and read medicine with Huston & Hammond. In 1868 he attended lectures at the Long Island College Hospital, Brooklyn, N. Y., for one term. Next he took a course in the Detroit Medical College, from which he received his degree in medicine and surgery in 1869. After graduating he returned home and taught school for one term. In 1870 he went again to Detroit, where he served as assistant to PROFESSORS WEBER AND JENKS, in the departments of anatomy and diseases of women and children. Subsequently he was occupied for a time as assistant in the office of DR. JENKS, after which he located at Pennington Point, McDonough County, Ill., where he remained until 1881. In that year he moved to Macomb, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying May 14, 1900. He was very highly regarded as a physician and as a man and citizen, building up an extensive practice and enjoying the confidence of his patients and the general public. On various occasions, Dr. Bolles traveled widely throughout the United States, and when seized with his final sickness had completed preparations and secured tickets for an ocean voyage, in order to make an extended tour abroad. He had accumulated considerable means, and held stock in both the sewer-pipe companies in Macomb. On May 15, 1872, the subject of this sketch was united in marriage with FANNIE PENROSE, at Macomb, where her family was among the pioneer residents. This union resulted in two children, one of whom died in childhood, and the other, HOWARD W. BOLLES, is now serving as Deputy Sheriff of McDonough County. On political questions, Dr. Bolles was in accord with the policies of the Republican party. Religiously, although not connected with any denomination, he leaned toward the Methodist Episcopal Church. In fraternal circles, he was identified with the A. F. & A. M., being a Mason of high standing, a Knight Templar and a Noble of the Mystic Shrine. He was also affiliated with the dramatic order, Knights of Khorassan and the Knights of Pythias.

Edgar Bolles, M.D., wo was for a score of years a successful physician, of high repute, in Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Sandusky, Ohio January 12, 1837. He was a son of WILLIAM K. AND SARAH (WEST) BOLLES, of whom the former was born in New London, Conn., in 1807 and the latter in Hillsdale, N. Y., in the same year. Being desirous of betting their fortunes they journeyed to LaGrange County, Ind.,

Henry Bogue, who owns and operates one of the finest eighty-acre farms in McDonough County, Ill., situated in Eldorado Township, was born in Fulton County, Ill., October 10, 1853, a son of JOEL AND SARAH (FREEMAN) BOGUE, the former having been born in Ohio. His paternal grandfather, JOB BOGUE, was also a native of Ohio. MARSHALL AND EUROPA (STAFFORD) FREEMAN were the grandparents on the maternal side. Joel Bogue came to Illinois with his father, who was one of the earliest settlers in Fulton County, where he located on a farm just east of Vermont. He afterwards went to Kansas, and lived on a farm in Woodson County, that state, about ten years. Returning to Fulton County, he remained there about three years and then went to Oregon, where he died in February, 1902. He was twice married. His first wife died a short time before he went to Kansas, and he afterwards married ELLA MORLEY, a native of the state of Pennsylvania. Henry Bogue returned to Illinois in 1877 and worked out for five years in McDonough County after which he lived two years on a rented farm. In 1884 he bought his present farm of eighty acres in Section 10, Eldorado Township, and moved there after his marriage. When he purchased this farm there were no improvements on it, and he has built all the fine buildings which now make it an attractive place, enclosing it with fencing, and tilling the whole of it. It is now, owing to its owner's intelligence, energy and enterprise, one of the best improved farms in the county. On February 12, 1855, Mr. Bogue was united in marriage with CORA SNOWDEN, who was born in Eldorado Township where, in her youth, she attended the common schools. Five children have been born to them, namely: GLENN R., FREEMAN S., TRAVUS LEE, FLOYD T., and J. R. In politics, Mr. Bogue is a supporter of the Democratic party, and served as Supervisor of the township in 1903-04. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the M. W. A.

Robert Frank Blythe, well-known as the proprietor of a department store in Bardolph, McDonough County, Ill., was born near Norwich, England, February 21, 1870, the son of WILLIAM AND MARY (STARRY) BLYTHE, also natives of England. His parents came to the United States, and located near Macomb, Ill., in 1872, the father there engaging in agricultural pursuits. Robert F. Blythe, who is the fourth of nine children born to his parents, was reared on his father's farm in Walnut Grove Township where he remained until he was twenty-two years old. During this period he received his early education in the public schools. He continued on the home farm for two years after his marriage, and then moved to Macomb, where he lived until the spring of 1899. At that period he took up his residence in Bardolph, and on August 29th of that year, went into the grocery business. A year later he put in a stock of shoes and dry goods, and in the fall of 1904 established a department store. He occupies two stores and conducts the largest establishment in town, handling a full line of groceries and canned goods, boots, shoes and rubbers, dry goods, hardware, patent medicines, etc. On December 31, 1891, Mr. Blythe was married to FRANCES LILLIAN CHRISENGER, who was born and received her education in Macomb. Two children have blessed their union: VIVIAN ULMONT, born December 21, 1892; and LILLIAN JUANITA, born July 21, 1894. In his religious belief, Mr. Blythe is a Presbyterian, and politically is a pronounced Republican. He was appointed Postmaster of Bardolph February 21, 1901, and re-appointed in February, 1905. He is considered a very capable business man, and an efficient Postmaster. Fraternally, the subject of this sketch is identified with the A. F. & A. M., Macomb Lodge No. 17, Morse Chapter No. 19, Macomb Commandery No. 61, and is also affiliated with the I. O. O. F. and M. W. A.

Harry Asher Blount, a well-known dealer in boots and shoes and gent's furnishing goods in Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in that city September 2, 1872, a son of ASHER AND CYNTHIA (BARNEY) BLOUNT, natives of Jefferson County, N. Y. The grandparents on both sides, AMBROSE AND BETSY (WOOD) BLOUNT, and HART AND BETSY (NEWELL) BARNEY, were all natives of Jefferson County, that state, except the paternal grandfather, who was born in St. Lawrence County, N.Y. Great grandfather, ASHER BLOUNT was of Vermont origin. Harry Asher Blount attended public school and Lombard College, at Galesburg, Ill., completing his college course at the age of twenty-one years. He then returned to Macomb and was employed in the pottery line for one year. For one year he was secretary of the Tennessee Pottery Company, at Tennessee, Ill. He then engaged in the real estate business in Macomb, in which he is still interested. A year after engaging in real estate operations, together with BENJAMIN GRIFFIN, he purchased the boot and shoe concern of GEORGE KERMAN. On January 9, 1905, CHARLES STAPP bought the interest of Mr. Griffin. In December, 1903, Mr. Blount purchased a stock of boots and also a stock of gent's furnishing goods, which he handles under the firm name of BLOUNT & COMPANY. He is a competent business man and is developing a flourishing trade. In social circles he is quite popular, and his early life is bright with promise. In politics, Mr. Blount is a supporter of the Republican party. Fraternally, he is a member of the K. T., K. of P. and Phi Delta Theta.

Asher Benjamin Blount, (deceased), former highly respected citizen of Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Ellisburg, Jefferson County, N. Y., May 27, 1819, a son of AMBROSE AND BETSY (WOOD) BLOUNT. The father was a native of Connecticut, and the mother of Middletown, VT. Ambrose Blount was a teacher and a magistrate. In 1814 he was enrolled as a "Minute Man", but was never called into service. Betsy Wood, the mother, was a sister of HON. REUBEN WOOD, a former Governor of Ohio. In boyhood Mr. Blount enjoyed but limited educational opportunities. At a later period, however, he took a course of study in a select school, subsequently taught for eight or ten seasons and was County Superintendent for a long time. In Jefferson County, N. Y., he was engaged in farming, blacksmithing and carriage making. He came to Illinois in 1866, and entered into the lumber business in Macomb, continuing thus until his retirement from active life. He was, for a long time, President of the Macomb Stoneware Company, and the Macomb Building and Loan Association. He was the possessor of one of the choicest and most complete libraries in Macomb. The first wife of Mr. Blount was ROXANNA MILES, to whom he was married April 18, 1848, at Watertown, Jefferson County, N. Y. She was born in that county and died in June, 1860, having borne three children, namely: MARY E. (MRS. J. W. HOSMAN), who resides with the 2nd Mrs. Blount; FRANK J. (Director of the Blount Pottery, of Macomb; and FRED P., who is farming in Kansas. March 25, 1868, Mr. Blount was united in marriage with CYNTHIA S. BARNEY, also a native of Jefferson County, N. Y. This union resulted in two children: HARRY, who owns two shoe stores in Macomb; and MYRA, wife of DR. FRANK LANE, of Macomb. Mrs. Blount's parents were from Vermont. Her father was born in 1801, and he had a clear recollection of the war of 1812. He was a clothier by occupation, but on account of his health turned his attention to farming. Mrs. Blount completed her education at Falley Seminary, Oswego, N. Y., and afterward became a teacher in that institution, coming with her husband to Macomb in 1868. She is the youngest of five children, who are all living, and that she comes of a long-lived family is further evident from the fact that her parents survived until they were over eighty years of age. In politics, Mr. Blount was a supporter of the Republican party, in which he had been prominent and influential. In Jefferson County, N. Y., he served as Inspector of Schools, Township Superintendent and Township Clerk. He had twice held the office of Mayor of Macomb. In all of these public trusts, he discharged the duties devolving upon him with signal ability and fidelity, and throughout his prolonged career enjoyed the confidence and respect of the entire community. Religiously, he was allied with the Universalist Church. The genealogical record shows that both the Blount and Barney families came from England to New Salem, Mass., just a year apart. LORD BLOUNT, who figured conspicuously in the battle of Shrewsbury, was an ancestor of the American branch. His death occurred October 29, 1899.

Charles A. Blandin, one of the oldest and most highly respected residents of McDonough County, was born in Westminster, Windham County, VT., December 30, 1829, the son of JOSEPH L. AND CENITH (HOLDEN) BLANDIN, both of whom were natives of Vermont. Joseph L. Blandin was a farmer by occupation. He left his native state at a very early period, and emigrating to Illinois, located in McDonough County, where the town of Blandinsville now stands. The journey consumed three weeks, and was made by way of canal, lake and river. Before starting on the journey, he had secured a patent for a tract of Government land, on which he laid out the town of Blandinsville in 1842, giving away lots in order to promote the growth of the new settlement which was named after him. All the material used in improving the place, was hauled from Warsaw, Ill., and all goods and merchandise were carried by wagon to and from that town. After founding Blandinsville, Mr. Blandin built brick blocks and a hotel there, and was successfully engaged in farming in the vicinity until the time of his death. For a while he and all his grain, together with that raised by the other early settlers of the neighborhood, was marketed in Warsaw. The farm house afterwards erected by him was located just back of Main Street, and was the first frame dwelling in that part of the county. He was the father of four children, namely: JOSEPH C., CAPTAIN HUME, JULIA H. (MRS. LYON), and CHARLES A. With the exception of the last named, who is the subject of this sketch, all are deceased. Politically, the elder Blandin was first a Whig, afterwards becoming a "Free-Soiler". He was a man of untiring energy and remarkable force of character, and was widely known throughout the Military Tract for his many excellent qualities of mind and heart, and his faithful wife was in every respect worthy of such a husband. Charles A. Blandin received his early training in his native town, and had just entered his "teens" when brought by his parents to McDonough County. For some time, he assisted his father on the farm and otherwise, and in 1850 entered the mercantile business, in which he continued five years. At the end of that period he sold out and went to Oquawka, Ill., where he was engaged, for two years, in the lumber and sawmill business. He then disposed of this also, and in company with his brother, built a mill at Burlington, Iowa, which they conducted until 1860. Mr. Blandin next applied himself to farming on the paternal estate. he also bought 320 acres in Section 1, Hire Township, McDonough County, which he improved to some extent, and there carried on general farming, together with raising and shipping stock, in which he is still interested. He now devotes his attention mainly to managing a small farm, where he is engaged in feeding and raising Poland-China hogs. In 1858, Mr. Blandin was united in marriage, at Oquawka, Ill., with LYDIA A. WADLEIGH, a native of Canada, and a daughter of LUKE AND PHOEBE (TOWELL) WADLEIGH, also Canadians by birth. Her father located in Oquawka, Ill., in 1855, and was engaged in the lumber trade there. Mr. and Mrs. Blandin became the parents of seven children, of whom five are living, as follows: SAMUEL W., a resident of Chicago; PHOEBE (MRS. SMITH), NELLIE (MRS. BLACKHURST), who lives in Racine, Wis., GRACE (MRS. BURRIS), whose home is in Houston, Texas; and CHARLES L., of Blandinsville, who carries on farming. In politics, Mr. Blandin is a stanch Republican, having been an unswerving supporter of that party for many years. For three years during the Civil War, he served as Postmaster of Blandinsville, to which office he was appointed by President Lincoln. Mr. Blandin has led a long, honorable and useful life. He has borne an important and creditable part in all the arduous labors attending the development of McDonough County, and in his declining years, enjoys the consciousness of duty done and of the warm regard and profound veneration of all the people of the region he has wrought so faithfully to upbuild.

Stephen Blackstone, one of the oldest and most prominent farmers of McDonough County, Ill., who carries on farming and stock raising on an extensive scale in New Salem Township, was born in Lafayette County, Wisc., January 17, 1838. His father, BEVERLY BLACKSTONE, was born in Madison County, N.Y., and his mother, ELISABETH (BLISSET) BLACKSTONE, was a native of England. His grandfather, STEPHEN BLACKSTONE, was born in Branford, Conn. The subject of this sketch was the eldest of three children born to his parents, and the only son. In 1840 he came with his father and mother to McDonough County, where, later in boyhood, he attended the district schools in the vicinity of his home, and assisted his father in work on the farm. The latter died January 2, 1861. Mr. Blackstone has always followed farming, in which he has been very successful, having acquired about 800 acres of the finest land in new Salem Township, McDonough County, all of which is highly improved. In 1860, he began to feed and raise cattle and hogs, which he has continued to a considerable extent. In March, 1896, he met with a serious accident which has since incapacitated him for much of the ordinary work of the farm. His right arm was caught in a corn and cob-crusher and so badly mangled as to necessitate amputation about three inches below the elbow. On March 2, 1866, Mr. Blackstone was united in marriage with MAHALA E. SMITH, who was born in Casey County, KY., and received her early education in McDonough County, Ill. Five children were the issue of this union, namely: BEVERLY, ELISABETH, GEORGE, NETTIE and CLARA. Mrs. Blackstone's parents, REUBEN AND MARY (TINSLEY) SMITH, natives of Kentucky, came to McDonough County in 1848, and settled near Bardolph. Her father died in 1873, but her mother still survives, and is living with her son and daughter. In politics, Mr. Blackstone is a Prohibitionist. In 1885 he served as Supervisor of New Salem Township and was School Director for twelve years. His religious connection is with the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a man of high character and a useful and much respected member of the community.

Is there anyone who has experience in obtaining records from McDonough Co. that could answer some questions for me? Please contact me personally. Thanks, Robin robin@firedragon.com ILMCDONO Listowner McDonough County ILGenWeb http://www.macomb.com/~ilmcdono

Among the wide-awake and progressive farmers of Emmet Township, McDonough County, Ill., is the subject of this sketch. He was born January 24, 1863, in Sciota Township, McDonough County, the son of SAMUEL H. and MARY BOSLER BLACK. His father was born in Clark County, Ohio, and his mother a native of Indiana. The father came to McDonough County in 1848 and lived eight years in Macomb, working at the carpenter's trade. He then bought a farm in Sciota Township, where he lived until 1903, when he retired from farming, taking up his residence in the village of Good Hope, McDonough County. Isaac W. Black is the eldest of nine children born to his parents. In boyhood he attended the public school, and, later, the Macomb Normal School, but remained on his father's farm until he was twenty-nine years old. He then spent nine years in business at Good Hope, after which he conducted his father's Emmet Township farm one year, and also spent a year on the paternal farm in Walnut Grove Township, where he is still engaged in general farming and raising full-blooded Shorthorn cattle and also horses and hogs. He is an energetic and systematic farmer, and success has attended his efforts. On May 16, 1894, Mr. Black was married to JENNIE E. BROWN, who was born in Walnut Grove Township, McDonough County, and received her mental training in the public and Macomb Normal Schools. Mr. and Mrs. Black have one child, HELEN G., born April 4, 1895. In religious faith, Mr. Black is identified with the Baptist Church. Politically, his influences and vote are cast in behalf of the Republican party. Fraternally, he is associated with the I. O. O. F. and M. W. A.

James Black, formerly a prominent and successful farmer of Bushnell Township, McDonough County, Ill., where he is now living in comfortable retirement, was born in Clark County, Ohio, on June 3, 1828. His parents, JAMES AND CATHERINE BLACK, were natives of the state of Virginia, and were born in 1789 and 1790, respectively. James Black, Sr., went from Virginia to Ohio in 1811, and followed farming there until his death. The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm and in boyhood attended the public school. In 1849 he came with his brother to McDonough County, Ill., traveling on horseback by way of Chicago and Rock Island. Mr. Black purchased 260 acres of land in Bethel Township, on which he followed farming for eleven years. In 1865 he sold this farm, and in 1866 bought 160 acres in Bushnell Township, on which he built and followed farming and stock-raising until 1899, when he retired from active life. For a time he worked at the carpenter's trade near Macomb. Mr. Black was first married in Ohio, in 1852, his wife dying January 20, 1853. one child, CYRUS, was the offspring of this union. On July 4, 1854, he was married to MARY ALEXANDER, who was born and reared in Virginia, and eleven children were born of this union. Mr. Black's children are: CYRUS (born of the first marriage), who is in the newspaper business at Hickman, Neb.; IDA (MRS. MORRIS), of Bradshaw, Nebraska; C. A., land appraiser for the Union Pacific Railroad Company at Omaha., Neb.; MATTIE (MRS. MCNAUGHTON), of Bushnell Township; CATHERINE SWISHER, a widow living in Bushnell; and GEORGE, who is on a farm in Bushnell Township; four who died in infancy; ANNA (MRS. HOUSE), now deceased, and MARIE, also deceased. The subject of this sketch was the first Town Clerk of Bethel Township, on its organization, and served two terms as Supervisor for that township. In his long and busy life, Mr. Black has been faithful to his conception of the requirements of duty, and has done his full share in promoting the material prosperity of McDonough County.