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Joseph Belsley |
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Retired far.; P. O. Spring Bay; S. 24; was born near Alsace, France, May 20, 1812; emigrated to America in 1831, coming direct to Tazewell Co., Ill., remaining about five years, then to (what is now Spring Bay Township) Woodford Co., his father, Michael Belsley, purchasing 314 acres of land; Mr. Belsley now owns 309 acres in this township, 480 in Roanoke Township, and 160 in Livingston Co., Ill.; married Miss Barbara Engle, in Tazewell Co.; in 1840; she was born in France, Feb. 8, 1821; have had 12 children, seven living - Peter, Christian, Joseph, Jr., John, David, Solomon, Benjamin; lost five - Joseph, Michael, Jacob, Jacob and Catharine; coming at an early day, Mr. B. has seen vast changes; by industry and indomitable energy he has accumulated a nice property; as a farmer he has ranked among the most enterprising, and as a citizen he is much esteemed. |