Jasper County Biographies
©Transcribed by Kim Torp except where noted
Click on a name in the table below to read that biography
EMERY ANDREWS Biography. On my Coles County website.
William W. Chapman,
a well-known farmer of Granville Township, Jasper County, residing on section 12, has lived upon his present farm
for a quarter of a century.
When he located thereon it was entirely destitute of improvement, in fact much of it was covered with a heavy growth
of timber. Erecting a log cabin, he began life in frontier style. He commenced the development of the farm, and
day after day saw the cleared tract increase. All was placed under the plow, and in course of time where once stood
a forest were seen waving fields of grain. In connection with general farming, he now carries on stock-raising.
The life record of Mr. Chapman is as follows: He was born near Bloomfield, Edgar County, Ill, September 24, 1840,
and is a son of Robert and Ruth (Hurst) Chapman. Their family numbered twelve children, of whom my subject is the
eldest. The others were Thomas, Henry, Mary A. (deceased), George, Louisa, Joseph, Hiram, Emily, Jane, Robert and
Edward. The father of our subject, who was a native of Kentucky, came to Edgar County, Ill. when a boy with his
father. The trip was made train, In 1840, he became a resident of Jasper County, and located in Crooked Creek Township,
where he still makes his home.
William Chapman spent the first eight years of his life in the county of his nativity and then accompanied his
parents on their removal hither. He attended the subscription schools, which were held in a log cabin, three miles
from his home, which distance he walked. On attaining his majority, he left the parental roof and began life for
himself. He farmed on shares until August 1862, when feeling that his country needed his services, he enlisted
for three years in Company E, Ninety-seventh Illinois Infantry, and was mustered in at Camp Butler. He participated
in the first attack on Vicksburg, but was ill with the measles during the greater part of that siege. He was then
sent to St.Louis, where he remained in the hospital from June until October, when here joined his regiment and
participated in the battles of New Orleans and Sabine Pass. Later he took part in the engagement at Ft. Blakely
and for many others of lesser importance. He was very fortunate in that he was never wounded or taken prisoner,
and with the exception of the time spent in the hospital he was always found at his post of duty. On the 18th of
August of 1865, he received an honorable discharge.
Ere leaving for the war, Mr. Chapman was married in 1861 to Miss Hannah M. Roberts, and the following children
graced their union: Ida, who died in 1873; Alice, deceased; Annie; William, deceased; Mary,Stella, Victor, Emily,
Essa, and Josiah.
At the close of the war, Mr. Chapman returned to his family and for three years engaged in operating a rented farm.
He then purchased eighty acres of land and began the development of a farm, on which he has since made his home.
He has been called upon to serve in the position of Township Assessor, and three different terms had served as
Township Collector, discharging his duties with a commendable promptness and fidelity. He takes considerable interest
in political affairs and since attaining his majority has been a supporter of the Republican party. Socially, he
is connected with the Grand Army of the Republic. His own industry and enterprise have brought him the success
of his life, and his honorable and upright careers has gained for him the high regard of all with whom he had been
brought in contact. [Contributed by source #26]
JOSEPH CUMMINS was a
well - known and honored pioneer of Jasper County, who took up his residence here in the year 1840, when the county
was in its primitive condition,being but sparsely settled. Our subject was a native of Indiana, his birth occurring
in the Hoosier State in 1825. When only a small boy he left the State of his nativity and came with his parents
to Illinois. The family located in Jasper County, where he grew to manhood, his childhood being passed in the usual
manner of farmer lads. On attaining his majority, Mr. Cummins was married. He chose as a companion and help mate
on life's journey Miss Mary E. Chapman, their union being celebrated in January 1853. The lady was born in Virginia
on the 8th of May 1834, and is a daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Dawson) Chapman, who were numbered among the early
settlers of Jasper County, they having located here when Mrs. Cummins was only about four years of age. Ten children
were born of the union of our subject and his wife, two sons and eight daughters of whom two died in infancy. Nancy,
the eldest, is a successful teacher in the Newton public school. Emma became the wife of George Van Treese, a representative
farmer of Jasper County; Lydia is the wife of Frank Richardson, who is engaged in clerking ina store in Newton;
Lillie is the wife of George Switser, a contractor and builder, now residing in Michigan City, Ind; Alice is the
wife of Wilbur Fortres, a practicing Physician of New Orleans, La. Frank is the owner of a meat market in Newton;
Josephine is still at home, and Cameron completed the family. The children all received good educational privileges
and were thus fitted for the practical and responsible duties of life. Mr. Cummins held membership with the Christian
Church and was a faithful and consistent member, whose life was in harmony with his professions. He was called
to the home of the righteous August 13. 1888, and his death was sincerely mourned by a large circle of friends
and acquaintances, who held him in high esteem. Mr.. Cummins was elected sheriff of Jasper County in 1873, and
served four years.He was a Democrat in politics and took an active interest in public affairs.To his energetic
disposition and business ability may be attributed his success in life. He was upright and honorable in all his
dealings, and by his well - directed efforts he accumulated a comfortable competency, owning at his death a large
tract of land in this county.His widow still resides on the home farm, which is situated on section 28, Smallwood
Township. She is a most estimable lady and the Cummins family is one of prominence in the community. [Contributed
by source #26]
PETER FRANKE is proprietor of the pioneer drug store of
Newton and is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Jasper County. He is widely known, and as a progressive
and valued citizen of the community deserves mention in this volume. He is a native of the town which is still
his home, having first opened his eyes to the light of day February 22, 1856. His father was Dr. John G. Franke.
His mother bore the maiden name of Gertrude Fischer. The former was the pioneer physician and druggist of Newton,
and our subject has followed in his footsteps.
Peter Franke spent the days of his boyhood under the parental roof and acquired his primary education in the public
schools of Newton, after which he attended St. Joseph's Diocesan College of Teutopolis. He also began the study
of medicine and took a course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of Keokuk, Iowa. While a youth
he was employed in his father's drug store in Newton during his vacations and leisure hours and has there continued.
From 1877 he was in charge of the store, and after his father's death in 1883 he succeeded to the business as proprietor.
His actual experience as a pharmacist, not counting his term of apprenticeship, covers a period of sixteen years.
On the 8th of June, 1877, Mr. Franks led to the marriage altar Miss Mary Bushong, a daughter of Adam and Lizzie
Bushong. She is a native of Maxburg, Richland County, Ill. Their marriage was celebrated in Newton, and two children
have been born of their union, a son and a daughter. The latter, Lola May, is now aged seven years, and the former,
George Edward, is a little lad of three summers. Our subject and his wife are well - known people of this community,
their home is the abode of hospitality, and they hold a high position in social circles. Their friends are very
numerous.
In politics Mr. Franke is Independent. In addition to his other interest, he is the owner of a good farm of eighty
acres, situated about one and a-half miles east of this city of Newton. In his business career he has been eminently
successful. He is enterprising and energetic, and by his upright dealing and courteous treatment of his customers
he has secured a liberal patronage, which he well merits. [Contributed by source #26]
GEORGE S. HAYES
Was born 6 Oct 1925 near Eldon, Miller County, Missouri, the third of four children. His parents were Daniel Hansford Hays and Ida C. Neville. The family originally came from southwestern Virginia. It was George Stanley Hayes' great-great-grandfather who settled the family in central Missouri a few years before the Civil War. Other members of the family include:
OLIVER PERRY HICKOX
One of the reliable farmers of a Grandville township, is above the name gentleman. He was born October 18, 1852,
in Terre Haute Indiana, and is the son of John and Mahala Jay Hickox. The father died January 1, 1853, and the
mother in the fall of 1899. Politically Mr. Hickox is a Republican, and a earnest member of the Christian church.
He was married October 2, 1881, to Miss Margaret A. Whitehurst,eight children were born this union, two boys and
four girls living, and two girls dead. Our subject has been a resident of this county for one-half century,and
is highly esteemed by all who knows him.
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J.M. Hicks, cashier of the First National Bank, is a native of Jasper, having been born in the northwest part of the County, May 30, 1859. He is the son of Mr. Ellis Hicks, one of the early settlers of the County, and who is now a respected resident of Grove Township. James was married to Miss Alice Green on May 4th, 1890. In his earlier days after finishing a common school education, he identified himself with the high calling of school teaching, which profession he followed with credit to himself for a number of years, and until he was selected as deputy circuit clerk under W.G. Williams. He was also deputy sheriff under W.F. Ross; was Master in Chancery two terms, and was deputy county treasurer of Jasper County. He was also assistant prison clerk and bookkeeper at Chester, Ill., under Governor Altgeld, in which position he distinguished himself as a man eminently fitted to fill with credit any position of trust and responsibility to which he might be called. In the rearrangement of prison officials incident to the change in the state administration, Mr. Hicks entered the county treasurer's office of Randolph County, as expert accountant, which position he held for nearly eight years and from which position he resigned in 1901, to accept the cashiership of this bank [The First National Bank of Newton]. Mr Hicks is a gentleman whom it is a pleasure to know, and one well qualified to fill the responsible position to which the board of directors have elected him. He is courteous, painstaking, and considerate of the wishes of the patrons of the bank. He is the possessor of that rare trait of always being pleased to see you, and a call at the cashier's window of any of his many friends invariably produces a smile upon his broad features pleasant to see. [Kim's note: This is my Hicks family....email me if you're related] |
| From: Biographical Sketches-Jasper County James M. Hicks: son of Ellis and Mary E. (Wilson) Hicks, was born in Jasper County, May 30, 1859. He attended school at the log school house of his neighborhood until his nineteenth year, and there laid the foundation upon which he has since erected the superstructure of a thorough education. He began teaching a district school at the age of nineteen, and in the mean while attended the Normal School at Newton. In 1880 he entered the Circuit Clerk's office as assistant to W.G. Williams. His father, Elias Hicks, was born in Kentucky in 1835, and came to Jasper County in 1850, and here married the daughter of Joseph and Nancy (Watson) Wilson. James M. Hicks is an honored member of the I.O.O.F. (corrections: Ellis Hicks, not Elias. Nancy Matson, not Watson) Thanks Barb! |
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(Deceased), the son of William and Elizabeth (McMullen) James, was born in Jennings County, Ind. in June, 1816. His parents were poor but highly respectable, and belonged to the society known as Shakers. At the age of eleven he lost his father; his mother then withdrew from the Shaker society, and with her children resided on a farm until her death. Mr. James then went to Edgar County, Ill., where, October ?, 1838, he married Jane, daughter of James and Elizabeth Duck, of Kentucky. In 1839, he entered forty acres of land in this township and his was the fifth family to settle here.
He put up a cabin, and, as it had taken all his money to pay for his land, he was for some time without chairs or table, but he was a man of energy and resources, and soon furnished his cabin with furniture of his own manufacture. He added to his farm from time to time, and could soon count his acres by the hundred, and built himself as comfortable a farm house as existed in those early days.
He had born to him thirteen children, of whom eight are still living, viz.: William H., Sarah P., Lovisa A., Augustus, Mary, Gilbert, Laura and Alonzo C. One son, Cyrus, was a member of the 97th Illinois infantry, was wounded at the battle of Vicksburg and later died. In 1840, Mr. James was elected Associate Judge of Jasper County, and held office most of the time until his death. He was County Sheriff from 1856 until 1858; in 1864, he was elected Probate Judge for four years and was twice re-elected.
He was taken ill in 1869 and lingered until August 29, 1872, when he expired, highly respected and dearly beloved by all. He gave to each of his children a farm, and left to his widow the homestead of 300 acres, which is being superintended by her son, Alonzo C. (from the "Biographical Sketches of Jasper County, Illinois in 1884") [Contributed by source #7]
CAPTAIN SAMUEL JARRETT [of Crooked Creek Township]
is a son of Wilson and Catherine (Dowell) Jarrett, the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Kentucky,
where they were married, our subject being a native of Mead County, and born March 1, 1837. Until his twentieth
year, he attended school and worked on the home farm, after which he followed boating on the Ohio and Mississippi
rivers. In the fall of 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Third Kentucky (Union) Cavalry. His first battle was at
Woodbury, KY., but he afterwards fought at Shiloh, Corinth, Pea Ridge, Perryville, and others. June 12, 1863, he
was commissioned Second Lieutenant, and detached on recruiting duty. October 5, 1863, he was commissioned Captain
of Company K, 48th Mounted Infantry, and was in various engagements, mostly with guerrillas, until December, 1865,
when he was mustered out. July 1, 1863, he married Martha A., daughter of Joel Grant, of Henderson, Ky., which
union gave issue to three children - Georgia L., Edith and Maggie. Mrs. Jarrett died, September 8, 1872 and December
2, 1873, he married Caroline, daughter of F.N. Watt, of Warren County, Ky., and to this union succeeded four children,
of whom two survive - Maud and Sarah C. In 1865, after coming to Jasper County, Ill., he purchased 160 acres in
Grandville Township, where he resides. His farm is well-improved, with a very good dwelling-house. Captain Jarrett
is a Republican and a member of the I.O.O.F. He and wife are communicants of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
highly respected by all. Biographical Sketches - Jasper County "The History of Cumberland, Jasper and Richland
counties", pg. 556 ..[Contributed by source #7]
B.L. LEWIS
Farmer and stock raiser, is a native of this county and a son of one of its honored pioneers.He was born January
24,1867,and his parents were Wm.H. and Elizabeth E. Lewis. He owns a fine farm of 206 acres in section 18 and 8,
South Muddy township, which is well improved. He was married February 14,1892, to Mary M. Mckinney. This union
has been graced by four children, Victor A.9 years old; Everett, 7 years old; Lester, 5 years old; and Russell,
now 5 years old.Mr. Lewis, although a Republican in a democratic stronghold, has been elected twice as Supervisor
of his Township. He also has been township collector of his town.
WILLIAM ARNOLD LIST
A farmer and merchant, was born in Jasper County, on January 27,1877, is the son of A.M. and Charity List with
whom he makes his own. William is an honest and industrious young man destined to make his mark in the world. He
is actively engaged mercantile life, owning and superintending a general store at List ,IL, in which vocation he
has so conducted himself both in a business and social way that he has the esteem and confidence of the entire
community , and enjoys a large lucrative trade. He has at all times in his store a line of goods that are new and
up to date, and pays the highest market price for produce.
WILLIAM MCKINNEY
[Monday, April 6, 1998].......[Contributed by source #55]
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Sunday March 29 [1998]..... A 100 year birthday party was held in Robinson for Lola Pulliam, the granddaughter
of Rev. William McKinney, who organized the South Muddy Baptist church. One other granddaughter of Rev.
William McKinney's, Arca Lucus of Columbus, Ohio, sister to Lola, was here for her sister's celebration. Lola and
Arca are the daughters of Henry Harlan (Joe) and Arca (McKinney) Johnson. A couple of weeks ago the South Muddy Baptist church was literally 'moved' from its original location to northern part of the Jasper County. Sunday March 29, a 100 year birthday party was held in Robinson for Lola Pulliam, the granddaughter of Rev. William McKinney, who organized the South Muddy Baptist church. |
| Jasper County resident Tanya Johnson, who is related to Mrs. Pulliam, submitted the following history of Rev. McKinney: | |
Short History of Rev. William McKinney William McKinney, son of Charles and Leviney (Ring) McKinney was born January 14, 1839 in Sullivan County, Tennessee. When four years old was taken by his parents to the State of Virginia, where they lived for thirteen years. About the year 1856 at the age of 17 years, he with his parents moved to Carter County, Kentucky. On January 1859 he applied for a marriage license at Grayson, Ky. County seat of Carter Co. to marry Miss Malinda Ann Cox, daughter of Henry and Atha Ellen Cox. Before the license could be issued he was required to give bond for 100 dollars, which was signed by him and his father, Chas. McKinney. This was the law in Kentucky at that time. On January 6, 1859, he was married to Milanda Ann Cox. In 1860 he professed faith in Christ and united with the Providence Baptist Church in Carter Country, Kentucky. Soon after this, he was ordained to the ministry. He lived in Kentucky during the Civil War and, being against slavery, he took sides with the North. He cast his first vote in the fall of 1860 for Abraham Lincoln. To keep from being captured and killed by rebel guerillas, he was compelled to sleep in the woods away from his home and family. The guerillas were bands of rebel outlaws that operated in the south during the Civil War. While going into town for groceries and supplies he was captured by a band of these guerillas, but through a man which was a member of the guerillas and who before then was was a good friend of his, he was released. Two other Union sympathizers who were captured at the same time were hanged from trees along the road side. Rev. McKinney lived in Kentucky with his family where he acquired 40 acres of land until the year of 1877. At this time they moved to Jasper County, Illinois. He had traded this 40 acres for 160 acres in Jasper that he had never seen. All this land was in heavy timber. Through hard work and economy, he acquired 583 acres in Jasper. After coming to Illinois he and his wife united with the Middle Creek Baptist Church, where his membership remained until he organized the South Muddy Baptist church. He organized several Baptist Churches in Jasper and adjoining counties. He was moderator for the Olney Baptist Assocation for a number of years. His church always came first. He lived a consecrated Christian life to the end with a great influence for the good with all he came in contact. He was very active for his age up to the last year of his life. He died at the age of 92 years, 2 months and 29 days. This was April 12, 1931. Rev. Wm. McKinney was the father of 10 children. Two died in infancy. Eight reached maturity and all of these raised families. |
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son of Thomas C. and Susannah (Birt) Melton, was born in Rush County, Ind., on August 6, 1836. He went to school in a log schoolhouse, and worked on a farm until the year 1851, when he came with his father to Crooked Creek Township, Jasper county, Ill., and where he worked on a farm and attended school, as before, until 1858, when his father was elected Sheriff of Jasper County, when he moved with his father to Newton, the county-seat.
On December 1, 1859, he was married to Sarah, daughter of Judge James E. and Jane (Duck) James. Six children,
five of whom are living were born to them, viz.: Ora J., Cyrus F., Susan L., Ira H. and None E. Soon after his
marriage he settled in Crooked Creek Township, buying 120 acres of land, and improving the same. He now owns 160
acres of well improved land, with a fine house. Besides being a general farmer, he raises some stock. In politics,
he is a Democrat, and has held several offices of trust, viz. Justice of the Peace, Township Assessor and Collector,
and is now the Township Treasurer. He and his wife are both members of the Christian Church. [Contributed by source #26]
JOHN MYERS, a retired farmer and prominent
citizen of Grove Township, Jasper County, residing on section 24, was born in Crab Orchard, Ky., September 13,
1812, while his parents were on their way home to Davidson County, N.C. The Myers family is of German origin, and
was founded in this country by the grandparents of our subject, who emigrated from their native Germany and located
in North Carolina in Colonial days. The grandmother died at the age of eighty-seven years. The grandfather died
in middle life,, leaving a son, Jacob, then three years old. This child became the father of our subject. He grew
to manhood in his native State and married Catherine Shular, who was born in the same State, as was also her father,
Abraham Shular, a farmer and blacksmith of North Carolina, who died in 1828, at the age of sixty-two years, in
the faith of the Lutheran Church. For some time Jacob Myers followed agricultural pursuits in the State of his
nativity, and in 1830 removed to Fountain County, Ind., where he carried on farming until his death, which occurred
in 1870, after a residence there of forty years. He was one of the pioneer settlers of that county and a prominent
farmer. He passed away in the eighty-first year of his age, and his wife died on the old homestead in Fountain
County, July 24, 1885, in her ninety-second year. Both were members of the Lutheran Church and were highly respected
people. They had a family of seven sons and two daughters, of whom John, Eli, Jacob H., Franklin M., Elijah and
Mary M. are still living. All are married and have families of their own.
The subject of this sketch spent the days of his boyhood in the usual manner of farmer lads. In the summer months
he aided his father in the labors of the farm, and in the winter season attended the district schools of the neighborhood,
where he acquired his education. After arriving at years of maturity, he chose as a companion and helpmate on life's
journey Catherine, daughter of Peter and Catherine (Long) Fine. Their union was celebrated October 11, 1832, and
unto them were born seven sons and four daughters, but three sons and two daughters are now deceased. Maria and
Jacob A., the two eldest, have passed away. Peter, who resides upon a farm two miles northeast of Gila, married
Susie Krout, and has eight children: Ephraim, Nettie, Charles O., Rosa A., Stella, Harry C., Clara C. and Ira E.
Susanna is the wife of Michael M. Sowers, of Gila, by whom she has five children: Sarah I., Mary C., Wickliff D.,
Alva L. and Oscar A.
John C. married Miss Lucinda Grimes, who died October 17, 1864 leaving two children, Emma Z. and Edna May, and
after her death he wedded Miss Elmira A. McIivee, by whom he has a son and daughter, Laura B. and John C. Levi
F., the next child of the Myers family, is deceased. Noah D., of Decatur, Ill., wedded Mattie Jane Ward, and they
have four children: Bessie Lee, Minnie May, Lulu Pearl and Murl M. Noah is a physician and surgeon of Decatur,
Ill., where he has practiced for five years. For thirteen years he practiced in Gila and two years in Indiana,
and has won an excellent reputation. Mathies H., is deceased, as is also the next child, Mary M. Amanda C., twin
sister of Mary, is the wife of James A. Sanders, of Fountain County, Ind., and the mother of four children: Susie,
David W., Martha C. and James Leroy. Eli, the youngest member of the Myers family, is County Superintendent of
Schools in Fountain County, Ind. He married Polly Wift and four children grace their union: Lena Leota, Vinnie
R., Edith G. and J. Howard. Our subject has thirty grandchildren and twenty-five great grandchildren. In 1891,
he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 15th of January, at the age of seventy-nine years,
five months and twenty-seven days. She was a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, a faithful and loving wife
and mother, and was held in the highest regard by a large circle of acquaintances.
Mr. Myers has followed farming throughout the greater part of his life. On embarking in that pursuit he began the
cultivation of a tract of timberland of eighty acres in Fountain County, Ind., which his father deeded to him.
This he cleared, plowed and planted, and in the course of time had a fine farm, whose rich and fertile fields yielded
to him abundant harvest. He lived upon that farm for the long period of forty-seven years, and extended its boundaries
until it comprised two hundred acres. On the 6th of June, 1879, he arrived in Jasper County, and at Gila opened
a general store and also established the postoffice at that place, becoming its first Postmaster. There he resided
and carried on business until the death of his wife, when he went to live with his son-in-law and daughter, Mr.
and Mrs. Sowers. He still however, owns his property in Gila.
Mr. Myers has always led a quiet, unassuming life, never taking a very prominent part in public affairs. However,
he has been a good citizen and while living in Fountain County, Ind., he held the office of School Treasurer. He
is a member of the Lutheran Church and for some years was a Deacon in the Hoosier State. In politics he has been
a life-long Democrat, having supported that party since he cast his first vote for Martin Van Buren. Mr. Myers
is now in his eighty-first year, but he is still enjoying quite good health. His life has been well spent, and
though he lived so quietly, he has lived so honorably that in whatever community he has made his home he has had
the confidence and good-will of all. [Contributed by source #26]
WASHINGTON ODELL - born in Rockingham County, North
Carolina on July 23, 1820 to Joseph and Anna Price Odell. In 1852, Washington and his wife Rachel Raper Odell traveled
from Indiana and Ohio, to Jasper County, IL, where they bought land, and had a prosperous farm. To Washington "Wash"
and Rachel, 4 children were born: William b. 1845, Anna,[Mrs. Edward L.Wilson] b. 1846, Olive Centralia, [Mrs.
George W. Arnold] b. 1853, and Joseph Holly, b. 1860. Washington enlisted in the Army on August 2, 1862, at Newton,
IL. He was a Teamster [Private] in Company I, 98th Illinois Volunteer Infantry,under
the command of Captain William H. Wade, and was to serve for 3 years, in the "War of the Rebellion".
He is described as being 42 years of age, 6 feet, 1 3/4" tall, with a fair complexion, blue eyes, and light
hair.
On the night of September 8, 1862, Washington was a guard on the Mississippi/Ohio railroad, conveying the 98th
Regiment from Camp Centralia, Illinois to Louisville, Kentucky. At Bridgeport, Illinois, the train left the tracks,
and crashed down an embankment, severely injuring Washington Odell. He suffered 3 broken ribs, his right ear was
severed, he had a deep gash from his temple to his right eye, which was damaged, a concussion, and while his neck
was deemed not broken, he had difficulty turning his head, and was in great pain. Wash was taken to Camp Dennison,
in Ohio, and was seen by the camp physician. After determining that he was unfit for the "Invalid Corps",
and was "2/3rds disabled", Washington was discharged from the Army on August 12, 1863, by Certificate
of Disability,
and in September of that year, was sent home to Jasper County, IL. For nearly 2 years, Rachel, his wife, took care
of her ailing husband [along with taking care of 2 underage children, and the farm], while trying to get a pension
for her husband, who was so incapacitated, he could no longer work.
On June 19, 1865, Washington complained of chest pain, and the local Dr. was called, and told him there was nothing
they could do for him, except for Wash to avoid exposure. The Dr. was again called on June 20th, when Wash complained
of great chest pain, and pain in his side and under his right hip. The Dr. saw at this point that Gangrene had
set in, and and was scheduled to see Wash the following day, but then heard that Washington Odell had passed away
that day, June 22, 1865. Washington Odell died as a result of the injuries he received that night in September,
1863. He is buried in the Fairfield Cemetery, outside of Gila,
Illinois. In 1872, his wife Rachel was laid beside him. [If you would like any further information on Washington
and his descendants, please contact source #34]. All information from this story can
be verified through the Civil War documents of Washington Odell, and family research.]
ISSAC DANIEL ORR
It would be a difficult task to find a more enterprising, and progressive man than Issac Daniel Orr,who was born
June 17,1869, in Jasper County Il, and residing on Section 8, Town 8, Range 14. He was the son of Hosea C. and
Mary (Matheny) Orr, the former having died February 18, 1890. He was married July 6, 1890 to Miss Lettie M. Mills,who
was born March 2, 1872, and is the daughter of a prospective farmer. They were converted March 2, 1898, and united
with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. They have two children; Hosea Leo, born November 28, 1892, and a baby
girl born the 8th of lst October, they call her Nellie Blanche. Mr. Orr served as post master at Deona , Cumberland
County, and also kept a grocery store at the same place for short time. He has a fine farm of 100 acres where he
resides. Politically he is a true Republican and in the neighborhood and among the people who knew him best, it
is said of him to be a good, honorable citizen, a kind neighbor and friend, and a man who's word is as good as
his bond.
JAMES OSBORNE
It would be hard to find a more enterprising and public spirited man in Grandville Township that the above named
gentleman, who was born February 22,1838, in Madison County Ohio. He is the son of D.S. and Elizabeth Osborne,
the mother who died December 1, 1851, and the father December 1,1870. Our subject received his education in the
common school, but like many other men his age, he had a poor chance of completing it. But by using good judgement,
economy, and industry, he has succeeded in buying and paying for a nice home of 122 acres, which he keeps well
improved and stocked. He was married twice. First to Miss Charlotte Jennings January 17, 1860. Four children were
born of this union, one boy and two girls living and one boy dead. He was again united to Miss Romantha Snyder,
December 19, 1875. Our subject has been a resident of this county for thirty-three years, is an ardent Republican,
and a devoted member of the Church of God. Read obituary
JOHN REED
The subject of these lines is a native of Henry Co., Ky., where he was born August 30, 1808. His father, Jonathan
Reed, was born in Western Pennsylvania, and was a soldier under Gen. Wayne. He was married in Virginia to Miss
Margaret Eweing, of Virginia. They removed to Kentucky soon after marriage and made a residence of several years,
coming from thence to Indiana, where they died (in Clark Co.). They had a family of eight children, of whom John
Reed is the fourth. He attained his majority in Clark Co., Ind., and married in same county in the year 1833 (September
5) to Miss Frances Beadle, daughter of James Beadle. She was born in Jefferson County KY., March 1, 1816, and came
when a child to Clark County, Ind., where the parents settled. Mr Reed came to this county in 1847, and in that
year located in what is now Dolson Township, where he entered forty acres land, upon which he lived a few years,
and then sold out and moved where he now lives. They have a family of twelve children, of whom four are deceased.
LEANDER N. REED
Leander N. Reed, farmer, P.O. Clark Centre, native of Clark County, Ind., born November 28, 1837, son of John S.
and Frances (Beadle) Reed. The father was born in Kentucky August 30, 1808. Subject came to Illinois and to Clark
County with parents in 1846, where he grew to manhood, settled in what is now Dolson Township. He received the
elements of an English education in the common schools of the county, and married March 21, 1858, in Auburn Township,
to Miss Eveline Hurst, daughter of Nicholas and Harriet (Craig) Hurst. She was born in Edgar County, ILL., August
19, 1839. In 1859, he bought the land on which he has since lived of Allen Michael, and entered by Richard Suterland,
consisting of fifty-five acres, to which he has added sixty-five acres. Seventy-five acres are in section 35 and
the remainder in section 2; eighty acres in cultivation; principal production, small grain. Member of the Masonic
fraternity, a Democrat and has represented his township several years as supervisor. Their family consists of nine
children, all born in Auburn Township. Harriet E., born September 19, 1859; Nicholas, born June 14, 1861; Dora
F., born March 20, 1863; Easter, born April 1, 1866, died September 18, 1872; Emily M., born April 27, 1869; Eveline,
born September 2, 1871; Viola, born July 12, 1874; John A., born July 27, 1877; Ollie, born March 26, 1879; an
infant died. Mrs. Reed and the two oldest children are members of the Baptist Church. Dora F. married March 7,
1883, to James W. Dunn. He is a native of the county, a son of Judge and Rebecca Dunn. He was born December, 1861.
G.W. SELEY
Has been a resident of this county for 47 yrs. He came here with his parents from Lawrence County, Indiana where
he was born September 14,1854. His father was A.J. and his mother Hester A. Selby. His father was wounded in the
battle of Pittsburg Landing and died from the effects of his wounds in February of 1863. His mother died in 1883.
He was educated at the common schools.He belonged to the Democratic party all his life, and is a member of the
United Brethren Church. He was married in 1882 to Miss Mary E. Downs, and to this union has been born two children,
a girl Della, now eighteen years old, and a boy, William, now four years of age. He owns a farm of 55 acres, and
in addition to this generally farms 100 acres more every year. He has served as Constable for some time in an efficient
manner, and is one of Grove township's most highly respected citizens.
MILTON SIMS.... On Thursday,
Nov. 22, the friends and relatives of Milton Sims quietly and without molesting him, assembled at his hospitable
home in Willow Hill township to testify their regards on the 65th anniversary of his birth with a surprise dinner.
The surprise was complete and the dinner ditto. The number present, though not accurately counted, was 75, all
representative people and the most of them old settlers, among whom were:
Thomas Cox and wife, James Holt and wife, Mordeca Bartley and wife, G.M. Selby and wife, James C. Ireland and wife, Mart Burch and wife, George Ransdall and wife, John Arehart and wife, Jeremiah Doty, wife and daughter Lizzie, Richard Sims and wife, Jacob Conrad and wife, Aunt Rachel Bartley, P.R. Lewis, wife and daughter Cora, W.J. Swope and wife and others whose names we do not now remember. Mrs. Sims planned the surprise and Bill Swope and Duff Selby, who carried it out, got away with uncle Milt to perfection.
Mr. Sims was born in Franklin county, KY, Nov. 22, 1823; moved to Rush county, Indiana when a lad; was married to Priscilla Harlan, Feb. 22, 1840; moved to this county Oct. 7, 1849. His matrimonial joys have been wrecked by death twice and he is now living with his third wife, who is several years his junior. He has prospered financially far ahead of his neighbors and is now living quietly in a sumptuous home, surrounded by admiring friends who will testify to his good citizenship.
He has served the people of this township several times as supervisor, and commissioner of highways with credit to himself and profit to his constituents. His children can point with pride to an exemplary father and he to them as honorable posterity. May his remaining days be as pleasant as his past is the wish of all and especially of REPORTER. Newton Press, Nov. 28, 1888
A.J. STROLE (ANDREW JACKSON STROLE)
was born in 1827 near the Shenandoah River, Page County, Va., where he was reared to farming until 26 years of age, when he moved to Vigo County, Ind., and later to Jasper County and next to Edgar County, where he worked on a farm for three years. He married Miss Nancy Step in 1858, daughter of Michael and Matilda (Yager) Step, natives of Virginia. She died in 1860, leaving one child - Michael. Mr. Strole's second marriage was with Miss Wealthy Lane, who was born in Jefferson County, Tenn., in 1832 - daughter of William D. and Lucinda (Cox) Lane, natives of the same State. To them were born seven children, viz.; Lucinda V., Charles P., William D., Hiram P., Thomas J., Isaac R., and Martha. Their family circle is composed of two other children, viz: Clara and Wealthy J. Dillmore, her orphaned nieces [webmaster's note: Dillmore should be Dittimore]. Jacob Strole, father of our subject was of German descent. He married in Virginia, Eva Kibler, daughter of Philip and Catharine (Snyder) Kibler. They reared to maturity fourteen children. William D. Lane, father of Mrs. Strole, was born in Tennessee in 1812, and was the son of Isaac and Rebecca (Scruggs) Lane. They settled in Indiana about 1835, locating in Union County, near Liberty; he removed to Clark County, Ill., in 1865, and to Jasper County in 1879, making his home with Mr. Strole, were he died in 1880. Mrs. Strole was among the first school-teachers in Jasper County, having first taught here at Island Grove, before which she taught in Indiana. Mr. Strole is a successful farmer and business man. On his arrival here his whole stock in trade consisted of an old horse, saddle and bridle, and $25 in money. He now owns a farm of 280 acres, well improved. He and wife are both members of the Lutheran Church. Biographical Sketches - Jasper County "The History of Cumberland, Jasper and Richland counties", pg. 507
