William B. Atherton, after many years of successful farming in Scotland and New Salem Townships, McDonough County, Ill., the subject of this sketch withdrew from his active labors on November 24, 1904. Mr. Atherton was born in Dallas City, Hancock County, Ill., March 14, 1842. He is a son of JOSEPH ATHERTON, who was born in Hamilton County, Ohio and ELIZA (SIMONSON) ATHERTON, who was born in the state of New Jersey. The grandfather, ISEIAL ATHERTON, and grandmother, NELLIE (CAMPBELL) ATHERTON, were natives of Hamilton County, Ohio. Joseph Atherton moved from Hancock County during the Mormon war, in 1845, to Stark County, Ill. Of the four boys and seven girls born to his parents, William P. (?) ATHERTON was the fifth in order of birth. In boyhood he attended school in Stark County, where he lived until 1872. In February, 1865, he enlisted in Company C, Fourteenth Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was with Sherman at Johnston's surrender, at Raleigh, N.C. At the end of the war he returned to Stark County, where he was the owner of an eighty-acre farm, which he then sold and purchased 120 acres of land in Scotland Township. In this and New Salem Township, he finally acquired 250 acres of land. Eighty acres of this he gave to his daughter, and sold eighty acres in 1904, leaving ninety acres in his name on his retirement from active pursuits. He then moved to Macomb, where he bought a residence on North Lafayette Street. On March 3, 1868, at Toulon, Ill., Mr. Atherton was married to AMELIA C. ATHERTON who was born at Cape Girardeau, MO., April 15, 1858, where in her youth she attended the public school. The offspring of this union was four children, namely: NELLIE E. (MRS. AMBROSE HARLAN), born at Lafayette, Stark County, Ill., March 12, 1871; MARY ABIGAIL, born February 14, 1875, and died October 19, 1878; EMMA, born December 27, 1883, who died at the age of six years, January 28, 1890 and JOSEPH A., born September 3, 1889, at Pennington's Point, McDonough County, and who remains under the parental root. Mrs. Atherton died February 1, 1901, and was buried at Pennington's Point. Although not active in politics, the subject of this sketch gives his support to the Democratic party.

Herman A. Asplund, who is engaged in farming in the vicinity of Prairie City, McDonough County, Ill., is a native of Sweden, where he was born on February 9, 1867, a son of CHARLES AND SOPHIE (JOHNSON) ASPLUND, also natives of Sweden. Mr. Asplund came to the United States in 1870, and settled near New Philadelphia, Ill. He then moved to a farm northwest of Bushnell, Ill., where he remained until 1903. At that period he took charge of the farm of JAMES LEARD, of Prairie City, Ill., on which he lived for two years. He is the owner of a farm near Macomb, Ill. On July 3, 1889, Mr. Asplund was married to NELLIE HAROLD, who was born in Fulton County, Ill. Three children have blessed this union, namely: EDWARD, MARY AND ETHEL. Politically, Mr. Asplund is a member of the Republican party, and fraternally is affiliated wit the modern Woodmen and Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

JAMES ARVIN, for many years a successful, influential and highly esteemed farmer in Schuyler County, Ill., and later a resident of Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Garrard County, KY., August 30, 1822, and received his early education in the country schools of his neighborhood, His family was of Scotch descent, and he was a son of STARLING AND ELIZABETH (LEYSHER) ARVIN, natives of Nova Scotia. The subject of this sketch was the youngest of ten children. At the age of seventeen years he came to Schuyler County, Ill., where he was engaged in farming until 1892, when he moved to Macomb, where he died, June 26, 1904. When he began life for himself he possessed very little means, but by industry, economy and thrift, he acquired considerable property. On May 17, 1882, Mr. Arvin was united in marriage with MARGARET E. WHEAT, who was born in Littleton, Schuyler County, Ill., where in girlhood she attended the district schools, afterward pursuing a course of study in the Branch College, Macomb. One child, JAMES ARVIN, resulted from this union, who died September 9, 1901, at the age of seventeen years. The political views of Mr. Arvin were in harmony with the policies of the Republican party. Religiously he was an active and useful member of the Baptist church in Macomb, and contributed liberally toward the construction of the new church edifice of that denomination, his donation of two thousand dollars being the largest one made for that purpose in Macomb. In every relation of life, James Arvin was an upright and conscientious man. He took faithful and affectionate care of his parents as long as they lived and fulfilled every obligation resting upon him with a high sense of duty. Mrs. Arvin was a daughter of JOHN WHEAT AND JULIA A. SNYDER, who were natives of Kentucky, the mother being of Irish descent and the father, German. They came from Kentucky to Schuyler County Ill., located on a farm, and later moved to Littleton, Ill., where the father died March 26, 1902. The mother still survives and is living at Littleton. Mrs. Arvin was one of fourteen children, of whom only five are now living.

Thanks so much to those who tried to find the marriage of John WILSON and Sarah HEATON! I am working with information handed down without any documentation, and so to move back any further, I need to find some facts, some documentation that might lead me on. I also have listed that this same John WILSON died in 1857 in Illinois. Since the son, Thomas John WILSON was born in Colchester, perhaps that is a good place to check? Someone offered to do lookups or give information from a cemetery in Colchester. Please send on any information that may be of assistance. Thank you! This John WILSON was supposedly born about 1821 if that helps at all. I am new to all of this, so I thank you for your patience and your help. Katherine Kunkel

Shirley Do you have a marriage for Jacob Henry Folts and Minerva Hire for about 1863/4. Walt

To those willing to do marriage lookups: Please see if you can find the marriage of John WILSON and Sarah HEATON, supposedly married in McDonough County, Illinois in 1856. I have very little information on these two and would appreciate any help you might be able to provide. Son Thomas John WILSON was born the next year in Colchester, McDonough, Illinois on 24 Dec 1857 Thank you! Katherine Kunkel

Shirley, is there a Joel D. Moore who married Elleanor Boyd, probably about 1862-1865. Thank you, Connie Ludwig

I have been away from the list for a while, but am back and willing to do lookups in any of the six marriage volumes, plus Bardolph Cemetery and Mt Auburn Cemetery in Colchester. Please be specific in names and only ask for a few at a time. Please do not ask me to look up all the marriages for one surname. This is very time consuming and takes away from helping others. I am researching STEELE, LUCAS, LAMBERT, WAYMACK, BEATTY, BARBER, TANDY and other names which connect to these. Shirley (Steele) Thielbar

Daniel Arter, formerly an energetic and successful farmer in Prairie City Township, McDonough County, Ill., where he now lives in comfortable retirement, was born on January 6, 1836, in Richland County, Ohio. He is a son of HENRY AND SUSANNA (MUSSELMAN) ARTER, natives of Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketch moved from Ohio to Iowa in 1858, and in 1859 came from Iowa to Illinois and settled in Warren County. In 1878 he came to McDonough County, buying 120 acres of land in Section 8, Prairie City Township and later 240 acres west of the first purchase and eighty acres in Section 16. He followed farming and stock-raising with success, but has now practically left the operation of the farms to his sons. All the buildings on his land were put up by him, and he made all the improvements on the place where he now lives. On September 21, 1865, Mr. Arter was married in Richland County, Ohio, to SAMANTHA MITCHELL, who was born in that county, and attended the common schools in her youth, as did her husband. Six children blessed their union, of whom the following are living: FRANK L.; ROY; PEARL B.; AND GUY. Politically, Mr. Arter is an adherent of the Republican party, and both he and his wife affiliate with the Methodist Church. Mr. Arter is a man of upright character, and bears an unblemished reputation. Mrs. Arter is a daughter of EPHRAIM AND CYNTHIA (EUSTICK) MITCHELL, both born in Ohio and passed their lives in their native state. She was the fifth in a family of eleven children and came west after her marriage.

Frederick S. Armstrong, who is superintendent of the Gas and Electric Light Plant of Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Greene County, Ill., January 20, 1863. His father, JOSEPH R. ARMSTRONG, was born in Rogersville, Tenn., and his mother, ANNA E. (WHIPPLE) ARMSTRONG, in Marietta, Ohio. His paternal grandfather, CLINTON ARMSTRONG, was also born in Rogersville. His grandfather on the mother's side was E. AUGUSTUS WHIPPLE. Mr. Armstrong attended the common schools of Carlinville, Ill., and afterward pursued a course of study in Blackburn University, also located in that city. Two years after he completed his education he applied himself to civil engineering, in which he was occupied for ten years, being employed by the Government for two years in Utah, and also in Kansas and Illinois. He was afterward engaged in merchandising in Bardolph, Ill., for three years and in engineering at Peoria for two years. On October 1, 1901, he came to Macomb, to take charge of the Electric Light and Gas Works, and has continued in this capacity since that period. Mr. Armstrong was married May 7, 1891, to NELLIE PROVINE, who wa born and schooled in Macomb, and they have one child, ANNA E. born October 5, 1894. Politically, Mr. Armstrong is a Republican, in religious faith is a Presbyterian, and his fraternal affiliations are with the Masonic order, and the Modern Woodmen of America.

Who is successfully engaged in farming in Hire Township, McDonough County, Ill., and one of the most substantial representatives of the agricultural element in this region, was born in Crawford County, Ind., April 30, 1847, a son of AUGUSTUS AND CATHERINE (BRYLES) ARGENBRIGHT, natives also of that state. The subject of this sketch came to mcDonough County, in 1870, and worked at farming here and there for six years. Being economical and frugal, he accumulated a sufficiency to begin farming on his own responsibility, and bought forty acres of land in 1877, locating in Section 1, Hire Township. To this he has made additions, as opportunity offered, until he is now the owner of 600 acres of choice land. On this he has made most of the improvements, having built his present residence twelve years ago. He follows general farming and stock-raising, breeding Shorthorn cattle and Percheron horses, and ranks among the most extensive and successful agriculturists in McDonough County. On November 19, 1876, Mr. Argenbright was joined in wedlock with HARRIET F. LOCKE, a native of Indiana. Four children have blessed their union, namely: VERNON, ZELLA, HAZEL AND GENEVAN. The religious connection of Mr. Argenbright is with the Christian Church. Politically, he is a supporter of the Democratic party. He has rendered good service to the township as Road Commissioner, and held the office of Supervisor in 1900-02.

One of the most enterprising and substantial farmers in Blandinsville Township, McDonough County, Ill., was born in Crawford County, Ind., on February 14, 1855, and there in boyhood attended the public schools. He is a son of AUGUST AND CATHERINE (BRYLES) ARGENBRIGHT, natives of Indiana. August Argenbright came to Blandinsville at an early period and carried on farming. The subject of this sketch arrived in McDonough County in 1871, and located in Hire Township. He engaged in farming until 1880, when he purchased twenty-six acres of land in Section 2 of that township. In 1898 he bought his present place in Section 35, Blandinsville Township, and now owns 242 acres in this Section, and in Sections 1 and 2, Hire Township. On this land, Mr. Argenbright has made all the improvements. He has always followed agricultural pursuits, has been one of the most extensive feeders of stock in this section, and is also engaged in breeding Percheron horses. He has one of the finest homes in McDonough County, equipped with all modern improvements. On December 25, 1877, Mr. Argenbright was married to ELLIE DAVIDSON, who was born in La Grange County, Ind. Five children have resulted from this union, namely: FRANK (deceased at the age of ten years); FANNY, MABEL, ETHEL, and GILBERT. Politically, Mr. Argenbright is a Democrat. Religiously, he leans toward the Methodist Church. Fraternally, he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America. Mrs. Argenbright's parents, JOHN AND NANCY (GILBERT) DAVIDSON, were born, respectively, in Ohio and New York, and coming to McDonough County in 1854, located on the farm where she now resides.

Formerly a prosperous farmer in Macomb Township, McDonough County, Ill., now living in retirement in Macomb, was born April 14, 1827, in Warren County, Ohio, where he enjoyed the limited advantages of the common schools of that period. He is a son of JOHN AND RACHEL (HILLMAN) ARCHER, natives of New Jersey, the father having been born in Camden County. John M. Archer was the youngest of six children born to his parents. In his youth he learned the plasterer's trade, which he followed from 1847 to 1865. Afterward, until 1868, he worked at farming. The period between April, 1868 and January, 1869, he bought a farm in Macomb township, on which he lived until 1882, when he located in Macomb. Here he bought a tract of three acres on which he built a house and made all necessary improvements. These premises he now occupies in comfortable retirement, free from the strain of active exertion. On May 2, 1862, Mr. Archer was married to MARY E. PARSHALL, whose birthplace was in Wood County, OH, where she attended public school. Her parents, JAMES G. AND MARGARET (STALEY) PARSHALL, were born in Allegheny Co., PA. This union resulted in the following children, namely: RACHEL ELMY (MRS. M. L. HARRIS), born in 1853 and now living in College Springs, Iowa; FLORENCE BELLE (MRS. JOHN F. BOOTH), deceased, born in 1855; MARY E. (MRS. GEORGE SMITH), born in 1857; G. FRANKLIN, born in 1860; JOHN W., born July 20, 1863, and ELIZABETH G., born March 8, 1865, who became the wife of ELMER E. POLLICK, of California. In politics Mr. Archer is a Republican. He has served as Supervisor for one term, and as member of the City Council from the Third Ward for three terms. Fraternally, he belongs to the Masonic order, Macomb Lodge No. 17. Mr. Archer spent about thirty-five years in earning the repose which he now enjoys, conscious of having well performed the duties of life.

Judith, I noticed you are researching MOORE. Are you related to William and Elizabeth GREENUP MOORE that were in McDonough Co., form about 1840 until William died just before 1890? If so I am from the line of Joel D. and Eleanor BOYD MOORE who moved to Nebraska after William died. Connie Ludwig

In a message dated 9/19/99 1:35:53 AM Eastern Daylight Time, mjackson@pacifier.com writes Looking for marriage of Sara Knott & John Orwig.... My grandparents. I am guessing 1902-1910. McDonough County. Bushnell Illinois. Thank you so very much Meg Mjackson@pacifier.com >> Hi, Meg, They got their mge license in FULTON COUNTY, You can send for it; ORWIG, John B. md Sarah L. KNOTT on Feb.15, 1905 Volume G; page 139; License # 42. (Be sure and include that information when ordering). Fulton County Courthouse 100 N. Main St. P.O. Box 226 Lewistown, IL 61542 Happy Hunting! Judith Goodwin Researching MELVIN, ORR, OLIVER, JAMES, MILLER, MOORE, COONS, HUKILL among others..

ABMILLIE@aol.com wrote: > > Can someone look up and see if they can find an 1844 records of marriage > between Richard Rutledge and Emily Kirby. Thanks so very much. Millie Conrad There is not one liasted in the McDonough Co. Marriages 1830-1854 Here is the ones there are: 476 John Rutledge & Susan Ann Epperson Oct. 29, 1854 44-366 Jaspar Twitchell and Susan Rutleage Dec. 19, 1841 Vol. II 1855 - 1863 1780 Thomas Rutledge and Mrs. Minervq Ann Davis March 3, 1862 - not returned 1854 John Shelkey and Miss Ann Rutledge Aug. 30, 1862 1929 Matthew F. Rutledge and Miss Martha E. Wheeler Jan. 1, 1863 Debbie Hamilton

In a message dated 9/18/99 5:17:38 PM Eastern Daylight Time, ABMILLIE@aol.com writes: Can someone look up and see if they can find an 1844 records of marriage between Richard Rutledge and Emily Kirby. Thanks so very much. Millie Conrad Hi, Millie and McDonough Listers, I found Richard Rutledge and Emily Kerby married in FULTON County on Oct. 31, 1844 - Volume B - page 13 - License # 117 I will do marriage Look Ups for McDonough and Fulton County. Happy Hunting! Judith Goodwin

Can someone look up and see if they can find an 1844 records of marriage between Richard Rutledge and Emily Kirby. Thanks so very much. Millie Conrad

I have been looking for my GGrandmothers ancestors for years. Her name is Louisa Keeling married to Charles W. Sebree. They were married in Springfield in 1846, and lived some in Macomb Ill. She is buried in Avon, Ill. My records are b. Oct 12, 1830 d. June 6, 1876. I cannot confirm anything as Ill did not keep State records back then. If anyone is related to this woman I would really like to hear from you and if anyone lives in Avon Ill or near by would you please see if you could find her grave and anyone else with the name of Keeling or Sebree. I know Avon is a small town so surely the cemetery would not be very big. Any suggestions as to where else I can search (from home) would be greatly appreciated and any help of any kind would also be much appreciated. Thank you Beverly

The site listed below is a good one for archival storage. Many photo albums are not acid-free and therefore can damage your old prints. This company specializes in helping you to preserve your family photographic treasures. It was recommended by several people on CRAIG-L, one of whom is a professional photographer. Thought I'd pass it on ..... Chris Bradley San Rafael, CA Click Here: <A HREF="http://www.20thcenturydirect.com/">20th Century Plastics & Century Photo Albums & …</A> http://www.20thcenturydirect.com/