From: "Biographical Review of Cass, Schuyler and
Brown Counties, Illinois 1892", by Biographical Review Publishing
Company, Chicago, Illinois; pages 504-505, a reprinted by Stevens
Publishing Co., Astoria, Ill., 1971, is sold by the Schuyler County
Historical Society, Rushville, Illinois.
William L. Brumback, Postmaster and merchant at Huntsville,
became a resident of that place October 22, 1864. He was born in Boone
county, Kentucky, January 29, 1852, being a son of Peter W. and Ann E.
(Estes) Brumback. The former was born in Virginia in 1801, but removed
in childhood with his parents to Kentucky, where he passed his early
life on a farm, learned the trade of brick mason, also silversmith. He
married in Kentucky a lady who was born September 22, 1809, and died
March 16, 1884. After his marriage he bought land and engaged in
farming. In October 1864, they came to Schuyler county, Illinois, and
settled in Huntsville, where he was interested for a short time in
merchandise. He died November 27, 1867. He and his wife had twelve
children, eight of whom grew to maturity, namely: Oliver, Benjamin,
Mildred Harrison, Isabel Barmour, Adelia Smith, Nathan, William L.,
Jessie Aleshire. Peter Brumback was an old-line Whig and later a
Republican, being always prominent in politics. His father, also Peter
Brumback, was a German and came to the United States when sixteen years
of age. He served seven years in the Revolutionary war, being present
at the surrender of Cornwallis. His brother John, also came to America.
The two were sons of a ship-builder in Germany. Mr. Peter Brumback,
Jr., was an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
William was reared on a farm and tilled the soil until 1881,
when he engaged in mercantile business and still continues it. He is a
stanch Republican in politics. The appointment of Postmaster was
conferred on him during Arthur's administration and he served nearly
five years. In 1889 he was again appointed and now holds the office. He
is also a Notary Public.
He was married, July 8, 1889, to Mary E., daughter of Budley and
Nancy Overstreet. She was born in Huntsville. Mr. Brumback is a member
of Huntsville Lodge, No. 465, A.F.&A.M. Mr. and Mrs. Brumback are
highly esteemed citizens of Huntsville.
