Biographies C

Following are some biographies of families who at one time or another lived in Henry Co. Illinois. In some cases it is the spouse or child who was a Henry Co. resident so please read carefully!

JAMES MARTIN CAIN

James Martin Cain, a prominent representative of the agricultural interests of Seward county, is now engaged in both general farming and fruit raising, in which he has been eminently successful. As a business man and citizen he also ranks high and has the entire confidence and esteem of his fellow men, who appreciate his sterling worth and many excellencies of character.

Mr. Crain (sic) was born on the 9th of April, 1845, in Henry county, Illinois, and is a son of Joseph and Barbara (Heckard) Cain. His paternal grandfather, John Cain, was of Irish descent, while his maternal grandparents, John and Catherine Heckard, were of Pennsylvania Dutch extraction, and all of his ancestors were tillers of the soil. Our subject worked on his father's farm until about thirty years of age, receiving his education in the common schools of Starke and Knox counties, Illinois. On the 13th of October, 1875, he was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Jane Cain, a daughter of James S. Cain, a distant relative. In company with her parents they came west soon after their marriage and settled in Saline county, Nebraska. But in 1883 our subject purchased his present farm on section 27, it being the west half of the southwest quarter.

On his new purchase Mr. Cain planted a fine orchard, containing seventy-five apple, seventy-five plum, seventy-five peach and over one hundred and twenty-five cherry trees; he also set out apricots, over one hundred and twenty-five grape vines and two thousand strawberry plants, and he has now made preparations to set out an abundance of raspberry and blackberry vines. His orchard has been bearing for nearly ten years, and he has all the fruit he can use and also ships to the little towns around. This branch of his business has proved quite profitable and he is now one of the prosperous citizens of the community.

Mr. and Mrs. Cain have four children, all born in Nebraska: Celia D. is now the wife of John Hartley, a son of Jonathan and Rebecca (Cain) Hartley, and they have two children, Ray and Walter. They now make their home upon a farm in Fulton county, Illinois; Winnie Bell is the wife of John Powell, a farmer of Saline county, Nebraska, Barbara Patty is the wife of Melvin Miller, of Saline county. Walter Clifton, the youngest of the family, is now seventeen years of age and is still at home on the farm, his education being obtained in the district schools of the neighborhood.

Mr. Cain has always been a stanch Democrat in political sentiment and now votes the Fusion ticket, supporting William J. Bryan at the last presidential election, while his first vote was cast for Governor Seamans. He is a public-spirited and progressive and. gives his support to every measure which he believes will prove of public benefit.

Source: Memorial and Biographical Record of Butler, Polk, Seward, York and Fillmore Counties Nebraska, p450

Note: couple was married in Henry Co IL

THOMAS CAMPBELL

Thomas Campbell, a farmer of section 25, Grant Township, - whose postoffice address is Lenox, is one of the intelligent and enterprising citizens who came here in 1878. He was born in Peel county, Canada, February 18, 1843, a son of William Campbell, who was born at Dumfries, Scotland. His mother, whose maiden name was Jane Murray, was also a native of Scotland. Mr. Campbell's parents came to Canada when young, were married there, and they still live in Peel county, in that Dominion, the father now being aged eighty-five years and the mother eighty-two. They had seven sons and two daughters.

Thomas, the fifth born, was reared to farm life. In 1863 he came to Muscatine, this State, and in a short time moved to Rock Island county, Illinois, and engaged in coal-mining, which he followed until he came to Adams county. He now has a fine farm of 120 acres of well-improved land, a good frame house 16 x 26 feet and one and a half stories high and well situated near a cross roads. He has all the appurtenances of a well-equipped farm.

July 11, 1866, at Rock Island, Illinois, he was married to Anna Howell, who was born at Ironton, Ohio. She was thirteen years of age when she came to Rock Island. Her father was William Howell, and her mother's maiden name was Magdalena Evans, and both were natives of Wales, where they were married. Her father died when she was eight years old, and her mother is still living, at the age of seventy-two years, in Henry county, Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Campbell have had nine children, namely: Robert W., Elsie, Susie J., Frank J., Mort L., Ira J., Artie, Wilfred and Ethel M. Two sons died in infancy. On national questions Mr. Campbell is a Republican. He has creditably served as Assessor of Grant township four years, and he has also been a member of the School Board. Mrs. Campbell is a member of Prairie Star Church (Presbyterian), Union county, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are honored members of the community.

Source: Biographical History of Montgomery & Adams Counties, Iowa; Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co, 1892. (Adams Co)

CHARLES A. CARLBERG

CARLBERG, C. A., blacksmith and carriage-maker; born in 1844, in Sweden . Brought up on a farm and learned his trade before leaving his native land, which he left in 1868. Located in Henry county, Illinois , where he owned a large blacksmith shop and carriage works. Moved to Page county in 1879, and is doing a good business in his trade. He was married in 1870, to Mary Hulting, and is the father of two children: Lizzie and Minnie. Mr. Carlberg is a genial and kind gentleman.

Source: History of Page County, Iowa; Des Moines: Iowa Hist. Co., 1880 Fremont Twp p 653

Note: married 31 Dec 1870 Henry Co IL (his name on marriage list is spelled CARLBURG)

GEORGE W. CARMINE

Todd Creek Precinct has many farms of an unusually fine description, not the least of which is that owned by the subject of our sketch.  It is 160 acres in extent, and is situated on sections 7, 4, and 12.  It is thoroughly improved, and is either cross-fenced or hedged in all its directions.  The property was somewhat improved at the time he purchased it in 1883, but he has expended much time, thought and money to bring it to its present excellent condition.

Among the chief improvements made by our subject must be mentioned the erection and furnishing of his residence, which is one of the best in the district and compares favorably with many in more eastern states that are far more pretentious.  It has four large reception rooms on the first floor, and four above for other purposes.  The home is elegantly furnished, and abundantly supplied with the various devices insuring the greatest possible amount of convenience and ease.  Externally, the gardens, etc show it off to advantage, besides making the surroundings exceedingly pleasant.

Ohio claims the honor of being the birthplace of the subject of our sketch, and the date of his nativity is the 21st of March 1834.  He was fifteen years old when his parents left the Buckeye state for Fulton County, Illinois.  His early life was shadowed by the loss of his mother by death when he was six years of age, and this has doubtless more or less affected his whole subsequent experience.  He received a good English education, so far as such is obtainable in the usual institutions of the country.  After leaving the classes and textbooks, he learned the carpenter's trade, and worked at the same for a number of years.

When about twenty-five years of age Mr. Carmine removed to Henry County, Illinois where he made his home for about ten years, after which he went to Plymouth County, Iowa remaining there for six years, then coming to this state.  He has all his life been more or less acquainted with the various duties and responsibilities connected with agricultural life, and chose to make that his occupation and has chiefly followed the same, with what success it is unnecessary to say.  His whole property, stock, and also his home, speak too eloquently to be misunderstood as to that matter.

While a resident of Knox County, Illinois, Mr. Carmine was united in the bonds of wedlock with Miss Abigail Kays of Knox County, IL, the event occurring January 21, 1857.  There have come to them eight children, five of whom are living, viz.: Henry, Mary, Jennie, Susie and George.  Henry married Miss Katie Pogue, of this county, and lives in this precinct; Mary became the wife of Mr. L. B. Arnott, of Johnson; Jennie is the wife of Lorin Blakesly, of Johnson County, Neb.; the remaining children are still with their parents on the home farm.

The wife of our subject was born in Knox County, Ill., in the year 1832.  She is the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Bracken) Kays.  She made her home with her parents until her marriage, was educated in the schools in Knox County, Ill., and is well prepared by this and her home training to fill any position in the home or society, generally.  Her father was a native of Kentucky, but removed with his family to Illinois in 1824 or 1825, where he still resides in Abingdon, Knox County, and although now retired from active engagements is still the owner of a large farm.  He was bereaved of his wife in the year 1870, but subsequently married again.  Within the communion of the Methodist Episcopal Church he is perfectly at home religiously, having been a member of the same for about sixty years.

Curtis Carmine, the father of our subject, is a native of Maryland, and was born in the year 1814.  While yet a youth he migrated to Ohio, then the Far West, and in that State was married in 1833 to Miss Susannah Towers.  Besides our subject, they had two children. viz.: Susannah and Maria.  He was a mechanic and always continued to follow his trade.  The home was at Circleville, Dewitt County and there he died in 1873 when about forty years of age.

Having lost his mother when so young, our subject has largely had to depend upon himself.  He is now one of the prominent and much esteemed men of Todd Creek Precinct, and indeed of the county, and also a very able citizen.  He is chiefly engaged in general farming, and in the raising of cattle, horses and hogs.  He raises the best breeds of cattle, and in horses confines himself almost entirely to the heavy road draft horses.

Frequently has Mr. Carmine been called upon to fill various township and school offices, and is a member of the Republican party, but not active as a politician, nor eager to take any chief seat in the political synagogue.

Religiously, he is affiliated with the Baptist Church at Long Branch, and is accounted an able and faithful supporter of the institution.

Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Johnson and Pawnee Counties, Nebraska; Chapman Brothers, 1889 p 221

JOHN CARSE

One of the highly-esteemed citizens of Phenix township is this well-known farmer who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 33. A native of Ohio, he was born in Wayne county, January 24, 1844, and was seven years of age when brought to Henry county, Illinois, by his parents, William and Mary (Finley) Carse, the family locating on the farm where our subject now resides. The father was born in county Down, Ireland, and on his emigration to the United States at the age of seventeen years he took up his residence in Ohio, where he made his home until coming to this state. He made farming his life occupation. He died at the ripe old age of eighty-six, having survived his wife some years. They were the parents of eleven children, seven of whom are still living.

Since coming to this county John Carse has lived on the old homestead in Phenix township, and throughout his active business life has successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising. As he has never married his sisters, Sarah and Mary, keep house for him. He has seen the wonderful changes that have taken place in this section of the state during the past half century, and has ever borne his part in its upbuilding and progress. He is widely and favorably known, and is held in the warmest regard by his many friends.

Source: The Biographical Record of Henry County, Illinois; The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company; Chicago; 1901; Page 451.

Submitted by Suzanne Franck

N. FRED CARLSON

N. Fred Carlson is one of the prominent agriculturists of Platte precinct, Polk county, Nebraska, where, on section 28, of township 14, range 3, he has an excellent farm. He is one of the first settlers of the region, and has taken an active part in the development of the resources of the county. He runs his farm according to the most improved and scientific methods, which have been adopted by the modern agriculturists. Mr. Carlson was born December 28, 1852, at Kalmer, Sweden, and is a son of Charles Nelson, who was a farmer by occupation and died in Sweden in  1859.

Mr. Carlson grew to manhood and was educated in his native land, and came to the United States in 1869. He first located in Marshall county, Illinois, where he remained for one winter, and  then removed to Putnam county in the same state. He worked out as a farm hand there until the spring of 1872, when he came to Polk county, Nebraska, in company with his mother and stepfather, Carl Parson, who are now residents of the county. Mr. Carlson located on his homestead in section 28, and built a frame shanty 12 x 14 feet, in which he made his home until he built his    spacious residence, which is now the place of his abode. He labored incessantly on his farm to bring  the same to a high state of cultivation, which it afterward attained, under his well directed efforts,  though the first three years of labor were in vain, as he did not raise a crop until 1877. His estate  consists of seven hundred and twenty acres of land, all of which is under cultivation, with the exception of forty-five acres, and the same is adorned with all the modern improvements, necessary in the running of a well regulated farm. The place is further adorned with a fine grove of trees planted by our subject, and he also has it well stocked with a fine line of high grade animals. He does a general farming and stock raising business, in which he has been very successful, and has accumulated a cheerful competency.   He has added largely to his original homestead by purchase, a part of which he bought of his step-father.

Mr. Carlson was united in the bonds of matrimony to Miss Mary A. Peterson, a native of Henry county, Illinois, in 1890. There have been three children born to bless this congenial union, who have been named as follows: Charles E. ; David F.; and Reinholt A. The family are members of the Lutheran church at Swede Home, of which Mr. Carlson has been a trustee. He is a member of the board of directors of the Scandinavian Mutual Insurance Company, of Polk county. He has taken quite an interest in local political matters and has held many minor offices. He is a stanch Republican and has been a delegate to the county convention of that party. He has also held the office of road overseer, and has served as judge of the elections. He is well known and highly esteemed, and is always willing to lend his influence to anything that will advance the interests of the community in which he resides.

Source: Memorial and Biographical Record of Butler, Polk, Seward, York and Fillmore Counties, Nebraska; Geo. A. Ogle & Co, Chicago 1899 p364-365

CARL J. CASSEL

Almost without a contemporary in years of continuous residence in Boone county, Carl J. Cassel is numbers among the honored   pioneers, having since 1849 made his home within this portion of   the state. Four years before he arrived in Iowa, but Boone county has numbered among its honored representatives for fifty-three years. He is a native of Sweden, his birth having occurred there on the 26th of December 1821. His school privileges were limited and he had no knowledge of the English language when he came to America. He emigrated to the new world with his father and family in 1845, taking ship at Guttenberg. The voyage across the Atlantic  was made in a sailing vessel and after eight weeks anchor was  dropped in the harbor of the new world. During the trip they had experienced some stormy weather and severe gales had arisen,  but they reached port in safety. The family proceeded from the eastern metropolis to Philadelphia, thence to Pittsburg and on  down the Ohio river to Cairo and up the Mississippi river to   Burlington, Iowa, reaching their destination in 1845. The family  located in Jefferson and Henry counties and were the first Swedish  people to take up their abode within the borders of Iowa.

Carl J. Cassel, of this review, remained in Jefferson county for about one year and aided his father in opening up and improving the farm there. He then spent two years in Fairfield, Iowa, working at the cabinet maker's trade, or at any employment which would yield him an honesty living. In 1849 he came to Boone county, his  brothers-in-law having previously entered land here. Mr. Cassel became connected with them, working with them for some time. They developed a farm of three hundred and twenty acres where the town of Madrid now stands. When several years had passed the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Cassel remaining upon the old home place. They had also built a steam flower mill in Madrid, and engaged in the milling business successfully for a number of years.

Mr. Cassel had become familiar with the business in Sweden, and  at the time of the erection of the mill in Boone county, assumed charge, continuing its operation for some time. He has improved some residence properties in madrid, and has added materially to the development of the town and county. He belongs to that class of representative American citizens, who, while advancing  individual success, has also added to the general prosperity by  directing their labors along lines of general good.

Mr. Cassel was married in Fairfield, Iowa, in 1848, to Miss Ulrich Delander, a native of Sweden, who was brought to the new world in 1846, in which year she became a resident of Iowa. To her husband she proved a faithful companion and helpmate for a third of a century and on the 30th of May, 1891, they were separated by the hand of death. Mrs. Cassel being called to the home beyond. By her marriage she became the mother of nine children, three sons and six daughters: John, a resident farmer of this county; Peter, a pharmacist, who is employed in the line of his chosen calling in Madrid; Charles W., who resides with his father and carries on farming in this county; Matilda, the wife of Charles Oakleal, who follows farming east of Madrid; Ulla, the wife of A.N. Anderson, of Webster, Nebraska; Clara, at home; Johanna, the wife of J.W. Johnson, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits east  of Madrid; Mary, the wife of J.H. Peterson, of Henry county, Illinois; and Amanda, who is acting as housekeeper for her father and brother.

Politically Mr. Cassel is a stanch Republican, supporting the men and measures of the party with unfaltering faith in the righteousness of its principles. He has been elected and served as supervisor of his township, filling the position for two years. Later he was for a number of terms township trustee and his frequently been chosen as a delegate to the county conventions of his party. He has always been loyal to the public good, whether in or out of office, and his life has ever been in consistent harmony with his professions as a member of the Lutheran church. His memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present of Boone county. On all sides was the wild prairie, unbroken and productive awaiting the awakening touch of man to transform it into rich fields. The site of now flourishing towns and villages was then unmarked by cabin or place of business. Mr. Cassel laid out the present town of Madrid and has contributed in a very large measure to its improvement and progress. He has aided materially in its development and is widely known as a man of integrity and worth, loved by his family, respected by his many friends and held in high regard by all who know him.

Source: Biographical Record of Boone County Iowa, Illustrated; S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, New York & Chicago, 1902

HON. GEORGE H. CASTLE

Hon. G. H. Castle, general merchandise, Blue Springs, Neb., was born in Waukesha County, Wis., in 1851. In 1863, went to Milton Junction, Wis., where he remained until 1867, when he went to Illinois, where he was salesman in a general store until 1879, when he came to this State, and located at Blue Springs, and opened a general store.

Is Treasurer of the Village Board, and a School Director of the precinct. In 1881, was elected Senator from the Nineteenth Senatorial District.

Was married in 1879, at Kewanee, Ill., to Miss Belle Nance of that place. They have one child--Claude, born in 1880. Is a member of Tyre Lodge, No. 85, A., F. & A. M., Blue Springs, Neb.

Source: Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska, Gage County

Note: marriage record Henry Co IL 16 Apr 1879 lists bride as Sarah Belle Nance.

ALLEN H. CHAFFEE

Allen H. Chaffee, contractor and builder of Corning, was born in Vermont, in 1834, a son of Harry and Annie (Allen) Chaffee, natives also of the Green Mountain State; the mother was a descendant of Ethan Allen, of Revolutionary fame. Harry Chaffee was a farmer, as well as contractor and builder, and died in 1888; but his wife preceded him to the spirit land a short time.

Allen, the fourth of five children, finished his school days in Hinesburg Academy, and then learned the carpenter's trade, probably inheriting from his father his mechanical genius. In 1852 he settled in Henry county, Illinois, and in 1874 came to Adams county, Iowa.

Among his works here are the First National Bank building, probably the finest in the county; the City Hall, the water works and the Edgewood, the beautiful suburban home of F. M. Widner, and the courthouse, the last of which is probably the grandest testimonial to his skill. It is on a commanding eminence, built of pressed brick, with granite columns and finished in hardwood; the walls are fire-proof; the offices and furnishings are in harmony with the beautiful exterior; while the vaults are fitted with the newest and best equipments. On the whole the courthouse seems to be perfect in construction, proportion and adaptation to the uses for which it is intended. Mr. Chaffee occupies a commodious residence of a farm just west of Corning, where the premises show that the proprietor is a man of culture. In his political principles he is a Republican, conservative and independent.

In 1857 he married Miss Isabel Duncan, and they are the parents of seven children.

Source: Biographical History of Montgomery & Adams Counties, Iowa. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co, 1892

Note: Couple married Henry Co IL 07 Jan 1857 bride listed as Isabella Duncan

WILLIAM J. CHARLOT

William J. Charlot is the owner of a neat and well improved farm of one hundred and eighty-four acres. It is pleasantly located near Minburn, on section 4, Sugar Grove township. Since 1890 he has been a resident of the county but his birthplace lies across the water. He is a native of Berlin, Germany, born on the 15th of February, 1852. His father, F. W. Charlot, was born in the vicinity of Berlin and was there reared and married, the lady of his choice being Miss Wilhelmina Witt, who was likewise born in the fatherland. In the year 1856 F. W. Charlot brought his family to the United States, settling first in Henry county, Illinois. He located on a farm, where he reared his family and there both he and his wife passed away.

William J. Charlot was reared to manhood in Henry county, for he was but four years of age when brought by his parents to the new world. His educational privileges were those afforded by the common schools, and he received ample training in the work of the farm from the time of early spring planting until crops were gathered in the late autumn. He thus learned to appreciate the value of industry and perseverance in the active affairs of life and these qualities have constituted an important element in his later success.

While still living in Henry county, Illinois, there occurred an important event in his life--his marriage to Miss Louisa Kuster, on the 15th of November, 1877. She was born in the vicinity of Berlin, Germany, and was brought to the United States when a little maiden of six summers, her childhood also being passed in Henry county. Following their marriage Mr. Charlot carried on farming in that county for a number of years and seven children were born unto them there. In 1890 they came westward to Iowa and he purchased the land which is now the family home. It was at that time a wild and uncultivated tract and he broke the entire place. After building a small house he began to improve the farm, and that he has prospered as the years have gone by is indicated by the fact that he is now the owner of a good, neat residence of commodious proportions. He has also built a big barn with sufficient cribs and a granary for the shelter of his grain. He has likewise set out an orchard and planted shade and ornamental trees, which add much to the pleasing appearance and to the value of his place. The judicious use of tile has made his fields well drained and augmented their productiveness and he has them all well fenced. In fact he has made a valuable farm by the care, labor and management he has bestowed upon his land, and in connection with farming he raises good grades of stock and also does a dairy business. It is due to his labor and diligence and the assistance of his estimable wife that he is now the owner of an excellent farm property and is one of the substantial farmers of Sugar Grove township. He is also a stockholder in the Minburn Co-Operative Store.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Charlot have been born six sons and six daughters: W. F., who has started out in life on his own account; F. W., who is farming with his father; B. E. and E. B., who are also carrying on business on their own account; F. J., at home; Reynard, also at home; Mary, the wife of Albert Hoggenstine, of Minburn; Emma, the wife of Andrew Appenzeller, a farmer of Boone county, Iowa; Minnie, Elnora, Lorena and Esther, all at home.

The parents were reared in the Lutheran faith and still attend services at that church. Mr. Charlot is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the blue lodge at Minburn. Politically he is independent, supporting men and measures rather than party. He is himself a man of honor, whose word is as good as his bond. He is always to be trusted and his life in its unassailable integrity is certainly an example worthy of emulation.

Source: Past and Present of Dallas County, Iowa; Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1907.

Note: Marriage record in Henry county found under CHARLET

CHARLES E. CHASE

Charles E. Chase belongs to that class of representative American citizens who are seeking their fortunes in agricultural lines and through their well directed efforts are meeting with most gratifying success. He was born in Jacksonville, Vermont, on the 17th of January 1844, a son of Merrick and Sarah Maria (Brigham) Chase. The father, a native of Douglas, Massachusetts, was the son of Benjamin and Sarah (Sprague) Chase, who went to Vermont when he was a small child. There Benjamin Chase owned and operated a farm, at the same time following the shoemaker's business. Merrick Chase was reared upon the home farm and early in life learned the trade of clothier, in which he had to card his own wool, and he followed that occupation for some time in Jacksonville, Vermont, where he resided in a home built at the end of a mill. Later, however, he was forced by the mills to abandon that line of activity and he became the proprietor of a hotel and also served as deputy sheriff for a number of years. In the latter part of the '50s he took his family to Washington County, New York, where the home was maintained for many years, and subsequently he came to Henry County, Illinois, where his remaining days were spent. He was an old time abolitionist and later became a stalwart supporter of the Republican Party.

Charles E. Chase was a youth of fourteen years when his parents removed to Washington County, New York, and his education, which had been begun in the Vermont schools, was completed in the Empire State. He continued to make his home under the parental roof until nineteen years of age, when his father gave him his time and he was engaged by the month as a farm hand until twenty-five years of age, when he came to Henry County, arriving in Orion on the 12th of March, 1869. He had an uncle, Francis Brigham, who had located in Western Township several years before. He was employed at farming the the month for about four years, and in the meantime, in 1873, his parents had come to Henry County, where the father purchased the farm upon which our subject now resides. The father continued to make his home on that farm until the time of his death, the son operating land in the capacity of renter for a number of years.

On the 26th of February, 1874, Mr. Chase returned to Vermont and was there united in marriage to Miss Sophia H. Farnsworth, who was born and reared near the birthplace of our subject. She is a daughter of Luke W. and Harriett (Brigham) Farnsworth, both natives of Vermont. She had enjoyed the advantages of a good education, and for twelve years resided in Boston, teaching school for a number of years. After his marriage Mr. Chase brought his bride back to Henry County and they began their domestic life upon the farm which is now their place of residence. It consists of one hundred acres on Section 29, Western Township, for which he paid sixty dollars per acre, and he also has become the owner of forty acres located on Section 33. The place has become a very highly cultivated property, its excellent condition being due to the efforts and labor of his father, himself and also his son. They have instituted many improvements and in 1909 erected a anew barn which is large and substantial in proportions and modern in construction, while the other buildings upon the place are all good and have been built by members of the family. Mr. Chase has divided his time between his general farming and stock-raising interests, feeding and shipping stock annually. He enjoys a substantial income from the fact that both branches of his business—the raising of grain and the raising of stock—are proving most profitable. He has made a close study of agriculture, is methodical, systematic, progressive and up-to-date in his methods, so that he is numbered among the substantial and successful farmers of his section of the county.

The union of Mr. And Mrs. Chase has been blessed with one child, Arthur F., who was born on the 1st of March, 1879. After completing the course of study at the Orion Public School, he attended Knox College at Galesburg, from which he was graduated with the Class of 1901. He then taught in a country school for one year and was principal of the high school at Castleton, Stark County, for two years. His identification with the educational interest was a source of benefit to the communities in which he labored, for he proved himself a most competent and able instructor, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. On the 20th of August, 1902, he was united in marriage to Miss Etta Love, a daughter of James and Anna (Beatty) Love. Since his marriage he has made his home with his parents and has assumed the active management of the home farm. He is making a specialty of raising pure bred shorthorn Durham cattle and Poland China hogs, and in this connection is meeting with most gratifying success. He is a young man who is well known throughout the community in which he has spent his entire life, and he has gained many friends who entertain for him high regard and esteem. He is Republican in politics, with strong prohibition tendencies, being stanch in his advocacy of the cause of temperance. He is a director in the Western Township Library, located in Orion, and is interested in all matters which have for their object the material, political, intellectual and moral progress of the community.

Mrs. Charles E. Chase has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since girlhood, and the son also belongs to that organization, being superintendent of the Sunday school. Charles E. Chase, whose name initiates this review, has long been a member of the Masonic Order, having held some of the minor offices, while his wife is a member of the Ladies Aid Society. In politics he gives stalwart support to the Republican Party, but the honors of office have had no attraction for him as he prefers to devote his entire energies to the conduct of his business affairs. His has been a life of continuous activity which has been crowned with most gratifying success. Although he is now in the evening of life and has given the active management of his business affairs over to his son, he nevertheless remains an active and interested figure in the world's work, the consensus of public opinion according him a foremost place among the valued and representative citizens of Western Township.

Source: History of Henry County Illinois, Volume II, Kiner, Henry, L., Chicago, Pioneer Publishing Co, 1910

Submitted by: Alice Gless

WILLIAM H. C. CHINN

William H. C. Chinn, now retired, was for many years one of the leading business men, and prominently known    pioneers of Howard county, Nebraska. He is a man of large interests financially, who, with his estimable wife, enjoys a large acquaintance and is held in the highest esteem by all. The family now occupies a handsome residence in St. Paul.

Mr. Chinn is a native of Shelby county, Indiana, born November 4, 1830, and is the fourth member in Chichester and Lucy Chinn's family of nine children.

Mr. Chinn received his education in his home county, and spent his boyhood on the home farm. At the age of seventeen his father died, leaving the responsibility of the farm on William, and from that time on he gave his entire time to those duties, remaining there up to 1855, at which time he removed to Henry county, Illinois. He settled on a farm with his family, and carried that on for ten years, then returned to Rochester, Indiana. There he was engaged in the mercantile and lumber business to 1882, and in the spring of the latter year brought his wife and three children to Nebraska, locating in St. Paul. He had two sons who had previously located in Howard county, and it was through their accounts of the possibilities of the state that their father had decided to locate here. Mr. Chinn and his second son, Chichester, at first engaged in the drug business in St. Paul, and ran the store for about nine years. They built up a large patronage during that time and prospered, from time to time purchasing farm lands in the vicinity, and in time Mr. Chinn became proprietor of a whole section of fine land which he improved in good shape, now being a very valuable property.

On May 9, 1854, Mr. Chinn was united in marriage to Nancy Timander McCown, of Preble county, Ohio, the ceremony taking place in Rochester, Indiana. They have had six children, as follows: Edward F., married, father of four children, residing in St. Paul; Chichester, now a widower with one child, living in Ord, Nebraska; William Albert, and Lucy A., both now deceased, the latter having married William Pruyn; Grant, living at home and Mary, wife of Dr. F. S. Nicholson, mother of two children, they also are living in St. Paul. Mr. and Mrs. Chinn and family are among the prominent members of society in St. Paul, and their home is one of the pleasant and hospitable domiciles in the locality. In March, 1909, our subject, with his wife, left for a trip through the western states, and spent three months touring the beautiful state of California.

Mr. Chinn is at republican politically, has always taken an active part in the affairs of his county and state, and is a staunch supporter of his party. In 1900 he was elected county commissioner and held the office for one year.

Source: Compendium of History Reminiscence and Biography of Nebraska, Alden Publishing Co, Chicago 1912, p692-693

JOHN CHISNALL

Since November, 1867, this gentleman has been an honored resident of Kewanee, and is to-day serving as special tax collector for the city. He was born in Lancastershire, England, January 27, 1833, and is a son of William and Alice Chisnall, who were lifelong residents of that country. The father died when a young man, but the mother long survived him, passing away in 1876, at the age of sixty-four years.

John Chisnall, the only child of this worthy couple, was educated in the common schools of England, and when a lad of eleven years was apprenticed to the wheelright's trade, which he learned thoroughly. He came to this country as a Mormon emigrant in 1831, prior to the insurrection of Brigham Young against the government and first located in Utah, where he remained until 1858, during the uprising. The following two years were spent in Omaha, Nebraska, which city at that time had no telegraph or railroad lines and gave little promise of its present thriving condition. During all this time Mr. Chisnall worked at his trade. In I860 he went to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he made his home until coming to Kewanee in I867. During the winter of 1866-67 he spent four months in visiting his native land. Upon his return he located in Kewanee, where he worked at wagonmaking principally until I888. Being economical and industrious he managed to save something from his wages, and this capital he invested in a lot in the heart of the city, upon which he erected a pressed brick double store building, which on account of its location is very valuable property. This he now rents to a good advantage.

In I857 Mr. Chisnall was united in marriage with Miss Ellen Sandiford, who was also a native of Lancastershire, England, and came to the United States on the same vessel with our subject in June. I831. Both are active members of the Latter Day Saints' Church, and during his residence in Kewanee Mr. Chisnall has served as pastor of the church of that denomination at this place. The congregation now numbers about one hundred families, and they have erected a good modern church edifice. Fraternally Mr. Chisnall is a member of the Knights of Honor, No. 1173, of Kewanee, and the blue lodge of the Masonic order at this place and the chapter and commandery at Princeton. He affiliates with the Republican party but has never taken an active part in politics. From 1892 with 1898 he was with the Kewanee Coal Company, and the following year was appointed by the mayor as collector of special taxes, water rents, etc., which position he is now most creditably filling. He has also served as health officer and justice of the peace since I893. He has led an upright, honorable and useful life, and is highly respected and esteemed by all who know him.

SOURCE: THE Biographical Record of Henry Co, Illinois. p 30

WINFIELD S. CHRISTNER

Winfield S. Christner, one of the larger agriculturists of Geneseo Township, owning three hundred and twenty acres of land on Sections 1 and 2, was born on a farm near Indian Head, Salt Lick Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, September 18, 1854, and is a son of Samuel and Rachel (Berg) Christner. The parents were both of Pennsylvanian nativity, the father having been born in Somerset County, the mother in Fayette County, and were of German and Scotch ancestry. Though reared upon the farm and to the life of a farmer, it is but recently that Mr. Christner has joined the agricultural community of Geneseo Township, for he tried other vocations in different parts of the country before he finally settled here. He attended the common schools of his native home and then spent one term at the normal school of Donegal, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, looking forward to a career as a teacher. He changed his mind, however, and learned the carpenter's trade, at which he had worked with his father more or less ever since he was fifteen, and which he followed until twenty-five. At that age he and some business friends started a sawmill in Westmoreland County and conducted it together for about five years, when Mr. Christner decided to come west and try his fortunes in Illinois. He settled in Geneseo, where he opened a bakery and restaurant. It was a disastrous venture, however, for in two years he lost a considerable amount of money, and in the fall of 1888 he returned to Pennsylvania. There for a number of years he followed the carpenter's trade and then in 1901 returned to Illinois, locating on the farm on which he now lives. For several years he rented land but in 1906 purchased the place being satisfied as to its fertility and the opportunities it afforded for acquiring a comfortable income. The years have proved that he was not mistaken in his estimate. He has remodeled the house, thus making it thoroughly modern, and the land for which he paid seventy dollars an acre, is now worth fully one hundred and seventy-five dollars, and there is every reason to look forward to its increasing in value.

Mr. Christner has been married twice. In his native county, September 20, 1877, he wedded Miss Sarah White, and to them was born a son Reuel, who is now living in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Christner died and June 10, 1884, he married Miss Emma Weimer. She was born in Atkinson Township, Henry County, and is a daughter of William and Susan (Heller) Weimer, a sketch of whom appears in another part of this volume. She attended the public schools of her native township and then spent some years in the high school in Geneseo. She met Mr. Christner while on a visit to friends in Pennsylvania. Five children have been born of this second union. Earl, born in Salt Lick Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, February 4, 1885, received a common-school education and is now at home with his parents. Edith was born in Bullskin Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, March 10, 1890. Elwyn was also born in Bullskin Township, on the 14th of February, 1892, and was graduated from the Geneseo Collegiate Institute with the class of 1909. Esther was born in Pennsylvania, June 2, 1898. Ewing, the youngest, was born in Pennsylvania, October 15, 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Christner are members of the Brethren Church, but there is no organization of that denomination in their locality. Mr. Christner cast his first presidential ballot for Hayes at the election of 1876 and was always a stanch Republican until of late years, when he has given his support to the Prohibition Party. He has served as school director for a number of years, and his influence has always been exerted toward promoting better educational advantages.

Source: History of Henry County Illinois, Volume II, Kiner, Henry, L., Chicago, Pioneer Publishing Co, 1910

Submitted by: Alice Gless

C.A. CLANCY

C. A. Clancy was born in Richland county, Ohio, in 1851.  In 1855 his parents moved to Henry county, Illinois, his father, Alex. Clancy, settling on a farm, remaining eleven years; thence to Marshall county, Iowa, and in 1867 to Tipton township.

C. A. started a blacksmith shop at Idaho, this county, in 1876, where he remained until he came to Hubbard in October, 1880.  He holds the office of Conductor in the Odd Fellows' Lodge of this place, of which Order is a member.  He was married in 1872 to Harriet C. Gettis, a native of the Hawkeye state.  They have three children living.

Source: History of Hardin County, Iowa; Springfield, Ill: Union Publishing Co, 1883; Tipton Twp

ALEXANDER K. CLARK

In the history of the building operations of Geneseo it is imperative that definite mention be made of Alexander K. Clark, a member of the well-known firm of J. F. Clark & Sons. He was born March 15, 1862, at Ridott, Stephenson County, Illinois and is a son of James F. Clark, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Following the removal of the family to Annawan, Henry County, Illinois, he pursued his education in the schools of that place and when he put aside his text-books he began learning his trade with his father who was very thorough and systematic in teaching him so that he acquired a practical knowledge of the business, well qualifying him for the work which he undertook as he entered the firm in partnership relation. The greater number of the best buildings in Geneseo during the past thirty-five years have been erected by this firm, a fact which is indicative of their standing in building circles.

Alexander K. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Anna R. Ogden, a sketch of whose father, John Ogden, appears elsewhere in this work. Mrs. Clark was born September 27, 1867, in Henry County, and it was on the 29th of November 1888, that she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Clark. Their union has been blessed with four children: two sons who died in infancy; Mary Ethel, who was born May 23, 1893, and is now in school; and Grace Elizabeth, born May 18, 1902. Mr. And Mrs. Clark occupy an attractive modern residence, which is, moreover, the abode of warm-hearted hospitality. They have many friends in the county and are greatly esteemed by all who know them. Mr. Clark is a man of unquestioned business probity as well as enterprise, to be depended upon under all conditions, and the success which he has attained is well merited.

Source: History of Henry County Illinois, Volume II, Kiner, Henry, L., Chicago, Pioneer Publishing Co, 1910

Submitted by: Alice Gless

JAMES F. CLARK

Among Henry County's citizens who have passed the seventieth milestone on life's journey is James F. Clark, of Geneseo, who since 1874 has been engaged in business here as a contractor and builder. He is now seventy-six years of age and many men of his years would put aside business cares but he is still active and enterprising and remains a valued factor in the world's work. He was born in Pennsylvania, march 13, 1833, and is a son of John and Margaret (Maxwell) Clark, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was a farmer by occupation and devoted his entire life to tilling the soil in the Keystone state where both he and his wife died and now lie buried. They were the parents of eleven children, but only two are now living, the younger brother being William Clark, a resident of Dallas Center, Iowa. There were three sons who served in the Civil War at one time, Samuel, William and Robert, and Robert held the rank of captain. William participated in the Battle of Antietam and Fredericksburg, and at the last named Samuel McMahan, a cousin of our subject, was killed.

James F. Clark, whose name introduces this review, was educated in the public schools of Pennsylvania, and soon after completing his studies learned the trade of carpentering. He followed that pursuit in his native state for five years and then came to Illinois in 1856, settling first in Stephenson County, where he engaged in carpentering for three years. He then worked at his trade in the City of Champaign, Illinois, for three years and it was about that time that he was married and established a home of his own.

On the 29th of December, 1859, Mr. Clark was joined in wedlock to Miss Anna Kerr, who was born in Pennsylvania but went with her parent to Stephenson County, Illinois. She was a daughter of Alexander and Catherine Kerr, who came to this state in 1846. Her father was a farmer and continued his residence in Stephenson County until his death. His wife also passed away there and their graves were made in one of its cemeteries. Their family numbered the following children: Mary Jane, now the wife of Jesse McKibben, a resident of Stephenson County; Mrs. Clark; Joseph, who is living in the state of Washington; William, a resident of Indiana; Cooper, who was in the Civil War and is now living at the Soldiers Home in Quincy, Illinois; Elizabeth, the wife of George Johnson, who resides at Gladbrook, Iowa; Frank, who lives in Ridott, Stephenson County, Illinois.

After his marriage, James F. Clark resided at Lanark, Illinois, for a number of years and was engaged in building operations there. He afterward removed to Annawan, Henry County, where he dealt in butter and eggs for five years. He then came to Geneseo in 1874 and for thirty-five years has been engaged in carpentering and contracting in this place. He has erected the greater part of the best and most modern homes in the city and also built a church in Green River. He is now the senior member of the firm of J. F. Clark & Sons, and they employ a number of workmen. Mr. Clark's own practical experience has well enabled him to direct the labors of others and as the years have gone by he has made substantial progress, winning desirable success and at the same time contributing to the welfare and improvement of the communities in which he lived and labored.

Unto Mr. And Mrs. Clark have been born six children, of whom four are now living. Mary is the wife of James Siebert, a resident of South Dakota, and they have four daughters: Mabel, who is now Mrs. Trumb; Hazel, the wife of Byron Souer, of South Dakota; Myrtle and Ruth, at home. Alexander K. Clark, the second member of the family is now engaged in business with his father. He married Anna Ogden and has two children—Mary and Grace. William D., who is also in business with his father in Geneseo, married Bertha Bessie and they have five children—Ferry, Morris, John, Audrey and Shirley. James F., the youngest of the family is married and lives in California. He is an expert mechanic and a carpenter by trade, having learned the trade with his father as did his two brothers.

Mr. And Mrs. Clark are both members of the Presbyterian Church, in good standing and are people of genuine personal worth, enjoying in high measure the regard of all who know them. Mr. Clark is a fine mechanic, turning out nothing but the best work and at all times using the best material, and many buildings erected under skillful guidance stand as monuments to his ability. He is, moreover, a man of unquestioned business integrity and his word is as good as any bond ever solemnized by signature or seal. Mr. Clark has built and sold a number of modern homes in Geneseo and now has a handsome residence equipped with all of the conveniences of the twentieth-century home. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished for he had no assistance when he started out in life for himself. He resolved to make his labor of value to others and becoming an excellent workman, has always been enabled to command good prices for his services. He has long been numbered among the leading contractors and builders of Geneseo and his worth as a man and citizen are also widely acknowledged.

Source: History of Henry County Illinois, Volume II, Kiner, Henry, L., Chicago, Pioneer Publishing Co, 1910

Submitted by: Alice Gless

CHARLES F. CLAWGES

Charles F. Clawges, who has been identified with Bridgeport interests since the town's earliest days, serving as its first postmaster and in other important capacities, is a native of Missouri, born at Trenton, February 23, 1865. He has lived in at least four states in the Union but has long claimed Nebraska as his home. He came to Cheyenne county in 1900.

The parents of Mr. Clawges were Dr. J. W. F. and Charlotte (Galander) Clawges, the former of whom was born in Kentucky and died in Missouri in 1869. The mother of Mr. Clawges was born at Gottenberg, Sweden, eighty-five years ago. She vividly recalls the long voyage from Sweden to the  United States made in her youth in a sailing vessel that was on the water for three months before  landing its passengers at New Orleans. In her long life she has witnessed many wonderful things come to pass, but the marvels of rapid transportation perhaps interest her most. She was united in marriage to Dr. J. W. F. Clawges at Annawan, Henry county, Illinois. During the Civil War he was regimental surgeon of the Seventh Missouri Cavalry, and afterward engaged in the practice of his  profession in Missouri until his death.

He belonged to the Masonic fraternity. There were six children  born to Dr. and Mrs. Clawges as follows: Una, who is the wife of J. W. Cartwright, a carpenter and contractor at Bridgeport; Lottie, who is the wife of William Forrest, an attorney at Peoria, Illinois; Laura, who is the wife of W. A. Shellheimer, a farmer near Chillicothe, Missouri; Charles F. and Jack, who are twins, both of whom live at Bridgeport, and Daniel F., who is assistant postmaster at Kansas City, Missouri. The mother, who resides with her son Charles F., is a member of the Seventh Day Adventist church.

Charles F. Clawges completed his high school course at Annawan, Illinois, after which he spent some time in the Northwest Normal School at Geneseo, Illinois, For two years afterward he taught school in Illinois, then went to Kansas, where for three years he was employed in a railroad office, when he was transferred to St. Louis, Missouri, and remained in the same capacity there for three  years, following which he spent one year at Spokane Falls, Washington. In 1900 Mr. Clawges came to Cheyenne county and went on a ranch with his brother Jack, the latter at the present time being  superintendent of the boiler room in the Burlington shops at Bridgeport.

In 1895 Mr. Clawges was united in marriage to Miss Mary Leaf, who was born in Boone county, Iowa. She was the first wife and mother in the Bridgeport settlement and the first child born here was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Clawges, Dan, whose bright young life went out during the influenza  epidemic, November 24, 1918, at the age of seventeen years. Mr. and Mrs. Clawges have a daughter, Una, who is attending school. Mrs. Clawges is a member of the Adventist church.

In 1901 Mr. Clawges was appointed postmaster of the new town of Bridgeport and continued in office for four years, and in many ways, as an intelligent and reputable citizen, was useful in bringing  about stable conditions. For some years he conducted a barber shop and was influential in bringing other business concerns to the place. He invested in land as his good judgment recognized the opportunity, and now owns a valuable farm of 200 acres all irrigated. Since retiring from active business life at Bridgeport he has been a very successful salesman of automobiles for the Mitchell  Car Company. In politics he is a Republican, and he has long been identified with the order of  Knights of Pythias.

Source: History of Western Nebraska and It's People, Grant L. Shumway, Western Publishing and Engraving Co; 1921; vol III; p121-122

VICTOR W. CLOUGH

Sound judgment combined with fine ability in mechanical lines has enabled the subject of this biography, a well-known resident of Geneseo, to attain a substantial success in life, and his history is of special interest.  He was born in Windham county, Vermont, January 20, 1856, a son of Harvey V. and Sophia L. (Heins) Clough, also natives of the Green Mountain state.  His maternal grandfather was William Heins.  The father, who was a very successful farmer, came to Henry county, Illinois, in 1857, and purchased a tract of woodland in Edford township.  He converted the timber into cordwood, and that undertaking proved quite profitable.  He finally sold his property in that township and removed to Geneseo township, where he owned and operated a large farm, but spent the last few years of his life in retirement from active labor in Geneseo, where he died in 1899, at the age of sixty-nine years.  He was an upright, honorable man, of most exemplary habits and liberal views, and was a Republican in politics.  His estimable wife is still living, at the age of sixty-five years, an honored resident of Geneseo.  In their family were eight children:  V. W., of this review; Henry C., a resident of Davenport, Iowa; Frank, who died at the age of thirty years; Harry, who died in boyhood; Llewellyn, who died when a young man; Clyde M., a resident of Davenport; and two who died young.

Coming to this county during his infancy, V. W. Clough was educated in the public schools of Geneseo.  He early became familiar with every detail of farm work in assisting his father, and grew up to be one of the most progressive and skillful farmers of his community.  He made a thorough study of the business, ever seeking for the best methods of carrying on his work, and was what is properly termed a scientific farmer.  For twenty years he followed that occupation with good results.   Possessing much mechanical ingenuity and very handy with tools, he finally turned his attention to manufacturing enterprises.   He has invented many contrivances and some very important machinery, including the first successful traction separator, which consists of a traction engine coupled to a threshing separator in such a way that it makes the two machines into one.  It can be moved forward or backward without removing the main drive belt; is always set and always in line; and is absolutely safe from fire.  He built his first machine in sixty days in 1898 after having devoted three years to practical observation and to the study of old machines being operated in the fields.  His machine was first tested in Illinois, and then shipped to Minnesota, being used in the large wheat fields in that state, also in North and South Dakota and in Oklahoma.  In this undertaking Mr. Clough has been unassisted.  The practical working of the machine in the fields has been its best recommendation and has secured the most sales.  A large expense is saved in help and labor as it moves one-third easier than other machines, and nearly one-fourth easier when threshing.  It is consequently also a fuel and water saver.  The first machine was so complete  that little changes have since been made.  Mr. Clough has listened to thousands of gratuitous suggestion, but has not found it feasible to change the pattern.

Mr. Clough has also invented a self-feeder for threshing machines, which is very simple, consisting of a band cutter and carrier, having none of the complicated shake boards found in other machines.  This invention is all his own and the secret of its success is the way the grain if fed to the cylinder of the thresher.  With eight men pitching from four ricks into the feeder it seems hungry for more grain.  It has been estimated by competent judges that this feeder is capable of receiving the threshing ten bushels of grain per minute.  Another of Mr. Clough's inventions is the combination water, coal and straw tender attached to traction engines which carries the water and coal supply in the coal burning districts and the straw used as fuel in the great wheat fields of the north.  These inventions will all be manufactured at the factory established by our subject at Geneseo.

In business affairs he is energetic prompt and notably reliable and his upright, honorable course in life commends him to the confidence of all.  Politically he is identified with the Republican party, and socially affiliates with the Masonic fraternity, Stewart Lodge, No. 92, A. F. & A. M.

On the 18th of May, 1880, Mr. Clough was united in marriage with Miss Josie Thayer, a native of New York and a daughter of Henry and Emily Thayer.  After the Civil war her father, who was a farmer by occupation, came to Illinois and settled at Woodhull, Henry county.  He was a most upright and worthy citizen of that place for many years, and died in 1894, at the age of sixty-five.  His wife is now a resident of Aurora, Illinois, and is about sixty years of age.  Their children were Josie, wife of our subject; Carrie, wife of Charlie Hart; and Robert, a resident of Alpha, Illinois.  Mr. and Mrs. Clough have two children:  Leslie V. and Florence S.  During the Spanish-American war Leslie V. Clough enlisted in Company B, Sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and with his regiment went from Springfield into camp at Camp Alger, and later to Porto Rico.  He was finally mustered out of service, and on his return home completed a business course at Moline.  He is a young man of good habits and much promise.  He has had much experience as an engineer and is a first class workman in that line, to which he has devoted considerable attention since the early age of nine years.

Source: The Biographical Record, 1910

Submitted by: Debbie Clough Gerischer

Note: marriage record lists bride as Mary J. Thayer

MARSHALL COE

The subject of this sketch, Marshall Coe, was born October 8, 1834, in Cattaraugus county, New York, and is the son of Cornelius and Freelove (Stanbro) Coe. His parents moved to Henry county, Illinois, in 1855.

Marshall was married in Illinois, September 28, 1858, to Miss Sarah Smith, a native of Whitesides (sic) county, that state, and the daughter of Henry and Hannah (Thoman) Smith. They have two chldren--Frank and Mary.

In 1876 they moved to Marshall county, Iowa, and to Jasper county in 1879, where they ran a boarding-house; came to their present location in Victory township in 1883, where Mr. Coe follows farming.

Source: History of Guthrie & Adair Counties, Iowa; Springfield, Ill: Continental Hist. Co., 1884. Victory Twp.

FRANCIS D. COLLINS

F.D. Collins, of the firm of Collins & Kerr, dealers in clothing and gents furnishing goods. Opened business in September, 1881, carry a stock of $5,000. Mr. Collins is also a part proprietor of a brick-yard, under the firm name of Collins, King & Berkenbuel. They have a capacity of manufacturing 3,000 pressed bricks per day. Employ twenty men. He was born in Toulon, Illinois, in 1856; lived in his native state until he came to Nebraska. He was clerk in Illinois four years. Married in 1878 in Kewanee, Ill., to Miss Ella M. Kerr, of the latter place.

Source: Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska, Hall Co

Note: married Henry Co IL 27 Aug 1878

WILLIAM CONE

Farmer, section 35, P.O. Victor. Was born April 25, 1835, in Chester, Windsor county, Vermont. There he attended school until 1844, when, in company with his parents, he moved to Knox county, Illinois, where, after finishing his education, he engaged in tilling the soil for some years. Then removed to Henry county, Illinois, where he continued to farm till 1867, when he came to Iowa and located where he now lives and owns forty acres of well improved land.

Mr. C. was married, August 19, 1857, in Henry county, Illinois, to Miss Eliza M. Cone, a resident of the same county and a native of Vermont, then aged seventeen. They now have five children: Edward T. (aged twenty-two years), Alfred W. (aged sixteen years), Grace (aged fourteen years), May (aged ten years), Ernest (aged five years).

Source: History of Poweshiek County, Iowa; Des Moines: Union Hist. Co., 1880. Jefferson Twp p 962-963

JOHN C. COX

John C. Cox, farmer, P.O. Farragut; born March 2, 1842, in Peoria county, Illinois. When sixteen years of age became a resident of Henry county, where he resided until January, 1873, when he came to this county.

He was married May 30, 1872, to Miss Lucinda Carson, a native of Henry county, Illinois, born May, 6, 1841. They are the parents of four children, two living: Bessie A. and Florence M. Mrs. Cox died December 27, 1879.

Source: History of Fremont County, Iowa; Des Moines: Iowa Hist. Co., 1881. Fisher Township

Note: married Henry Co IL

SAMUEL A. COX

Samuel A. Cox, dealer in grain and coal, P. O. Farragut; born September 20, 1851, in Peoria county, Illinois, where he resided until February, 1855, when he moved to Henry county, same state.

In April, 1872, he came to Fremont county, Iowa, to engage in farming, which occupation he followed untilOctober, 1878, when he began his present business.

Source: History of Fremont County, Iowa; Des Moines: Iowa Hist. Co., 1881. Fisher Township

WILLIAM B. COX

William B. Cox., farmer, P. O. Farragut; born September 21, 1839, in Richmond, Virginia. In the winter following his parents moved to Peoria county, Illinois. In 1857 he moved to Henry county, same state.

In September, 1860, he attended Lombard University, remaining one year. In 1862 he taught school, and in 1864 was employed in the quartermaster's department until the latter part of June, when he was discharged.

He was married February 6, 1866, to Miss Almedia Bennett, a native of Ohio, born August 11, 1846. They have four children: Willie T., born November 29, 1866; Eddie, born November 27, 1868; Errie L., born September 24, 1874; and Thomas, born January 8, 1877. They came to this county in the spring of 1875. He is one of the township trustees, and holds the respect of all his neighbors.

Source: History of Fremont County, Iowa; Des Moines: Iowa Hist. Co., 1881. Fisher Township

Note: IL State Marriage Index lists Wm. B Cox m. Amanda Bennett 16 Mar 1866 in Henry Co IL (date and bride's name appear differently in bio)

DIANA BUCK CRAIN

The incidental mention that was made in these columms last week of the death of Mrs. Harvey Crain, was far from being all that we wishe to say of that most worthy woman.  The wife of one of Geneseo's oldest and best citizens, who left us for the better world several years ago, she has since made her home with her son, George, west of town, where she peacefully breathed out her life Dec. 30, aged 74 years, 4 months and 25 days. Their sons, Henry, Charles, and George, are such men as a father and mother can feel satisfied to leave to the world. Honorable, upright, with all the world for friends, and no enemies anywhere, they are worthy men to perpetuate a worthy name.

Among the household treasures the sons found are ancient account book whose yellow pages set forth in clear writing the financial transactions of the Crain family, reaching back into the last century, It is very curious. We now have it before us. The money then was pounds, shilling and pence, "in good King George's glorious days." We have also been shown an ancient French coin called Six Livres, date 1793, which the three Crain boys used as a "teething ring."

Source: Geneseo newspaper, 1892

Submitted by: Deborah Lacy

CHARLES R. CRABB

Charles R. Crabb, farmer and stockraiser, was born February 17, 1841, in Allen county, Ohio, being the son of John M. and Amanda (Root) Crabb. His parents moved to Williams county, Ohio, in 1848.

Charles was married there on the 1st of January, 1860, to Miss Sarah C. Cleland, of Defiance county, Ohio, she being a daughter of John and Letetia (Carr) Cleland. They have four children--John, Edwin, Jennie, and Charles Looman.

In 1861 he moved to Defiance county, and from there to Henry county, Illinois, in 1865.

He came to Walnut township, Adair county, in the spring of 1870, and to Menlo in 1875, where he engaged in the agricultural implement business, and continued the same till 1877. He came to his present location in the spring of 1882. He is a member of the V.A.S. and of the Crescent lodge No. 228, A.O.U.W., of Menlo, being a trustee in the latter organization. Mr. Crabb enlisted in Company G, 142d Indiana infantry, October 24, 1864, and was discharged July 24, 1865.

He is engaged in farming and stock-raising of all kinds, but pays particular attention to Hereford cattle, now having one hundred and ten head of them, with Imp. Heavy-sides at the head of the herd. At present he holds the position of clerk of the township.

Source: History of Guthrie & Adair Counties, Iowa; Springfield, Ill: Continental Hist. Co., 1884. Jefferson Twp

GEORGE M. CRABB

George M. Crabb who is a farmer and stock-raiser on section 31 , was born in Licking county, Ohio, on the 24th of March, 1845. He moved with his parents to Williams county, Ohio, in 1848, where he remained until 1865, when he went to Henry county, Illinois. He was married in Peoria county, March 7, 1867, to Mrs. Catharine Foote, a daughter of Elias Potter. They have five children--William, Albert, Alice, Ada, and Eva. In 1869 he came to Adair county, and in October, 1875, he came to Guthrie county, where he settled on his present location in Beaver township. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of good land, all of which is under cultivation. and has a nicely situated home. Mr. Crabb is a member of V. A. S. of Menlo. He now holds the position of school director.

Source: History of Guthrie and Adair Counties, IA, 1884 Springfield IL, Continental Hist Co [Beaver township]