MRS. M. A. CAMPBELL, the widow of James Campbell, owns and occupies a snug homestead, consisting of eighty acres of land and a good farm dwelling on section 35, White Oak Township. She is a native of Morgan County, Ohio, and was born in 1840, being the daughter of John and Mary (Fry) Ray. Her father was born in Virginia, Dec. 30, 1803, and the mother near Wellsburg in the same State in 1813. They were married there in 1836, whence they removed shortly afterward to Ohio, and Mr. Ray purchased 160 acres of land in Morgan County. There he established a comfortable home, upon which he remained until his death, which occurred April 10, 1861. Mrs. Ray is still living on the old homestead. They became the parents of the following children: Rachel J., now Mrs. Thomas Hempfield; M. A., of our sketch; George V., who married Miss Elizabeth Wilson; Thomas, who married Miss Eliza Ray; Samuel, who married Miss Elizabeth Gordan, and Sarah E., unmarried and living with her mother. The parents belonged to the Presbyterian Church, and politically Mr. Ray was a stanch Democrat.

The subject of this history was married Oct. 5, 1865, in McConnellsville, to James T. Campbell. Mr. C. was a native of Pennsylvania, and born in 1838. After their marriage they came westward and located on eighty acres of land in this county, which Mr. C. improved and cultivated. His death occurred Dec. 4, 1878. During the late war Mr. Campbell enlisted as a Union soldier, becoming a member of Co. C, 122d Regiment, Ohio Volunteers. He served three years, and participated in the battles at Warrensburg, Port Royal, Kelley's Ford [ed., Kelly’s Ford], Brandy Station, Locust Grove, and other engagements and skirmishes. He was also at the battle of Winchester and the siege of Vicksburg [ed., Battle for Vicksburg], and performed his duties bravely and faithfully, escaping without a wound or being captured. As a citizen Mr. Campbell was highly valued in his community, and when among his family and friends displayed those genial and lovable traits which endeared him to all. He was a regular attendant of the Presbyterian Church, although he never connected himself with any religious organization.

Mrs. Campbell lived with her parents during her childhood and youth, and until she was married, and received a fair education in the common schools. Since the death of her husband she has carried on the farm with good judgment and in a business-like manner. She is a very intelligent and pleasing lady, and highly respected by all who know her.

Portrait and biographical album of McLean County, Ill. : containing full page portraits and biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county, together with portraits and biographies of all the governors of Illinois, and of the presidents of the United States.  (Chicago:  Chapman Brothers, 1887), 401.  Transcribed and annotated by Judy Rosella Edwards.  Please link to this page if you find it useful – and drop us a note if you do!