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Left to right: Cordie, Rene and Ed |
(4 generations) 1915: L-R Elizabeth (Waddell) Bishop DeWitt, Pauline Juanita (Winkler) Rivers holding daughter Pauline Juanita Rivers, and Cordelia Belva 'Cordie' (Bishop) Winkler Read |
Biographies
Wa-We
Elizabeth Waddell,
d/o John Waddell and Rebecca Barcus, was born 7 Mar 1867 in Fulton Co., IL. She
married William E. Bishop 7 Mar 1867, Fulton Co., IL. William, s/o Samuel Bishop
and Nancy Strode, was born 13 Jan 1846 in Kentucky. William and Elizabeth were
the parents of 4 children: Edward L., b. 29 May 1868 in Cuba, IL / d. 15 Jun
1954 in Canton, IL / bur. Cuba Cem.; Wallace, b. 30 Aug 1869 in IL / d. 27 Aug
1870 / bur. Blackaby-Saunders Cem.; Mary Serena 'Rene', b. 1871 in IL / md.
George A. MURPHY in Cuba, IL / d. 1965 / bur. Cuba Cem.; Cordelia Belva
'Cordie', b. 21 Aug 1872 in Cuba, IL / md. Anton Winkler 31 Dec 1891 in Cuba, IL
/ d. 6 Jul 1949 in Theodore, Mobile Co., AL / bur. Cuba Cem.
William died 25 Nov 1873, leaving Elizabeth a
27-year-old widow with three small children. He was buried in Blackaby-Saunders
Cem. with infant son Wallace.
A few years later Elizabeth Waddell Bishop md. Richard
DeWitt, s/o Henry DeWitt & Priscilla Deakin, 19 Apr 1877 in Fulton Co., IL.
Elizabeth and Richard were the parents of 4 children: Priscilla R., b. Feb 1878
in IL; Grace Jean "Gracie" b. Jul 1880 in IL; Asher B., b. Mar 1882 in IL; and
Cora E., b. 8 Dec 1884 in IL / md. Herbert L. TURNER / d. 5 Nov 1918 in Canton,
IL / bur. Blackaby-Saunders Cem.
Richard DeWitt died 18 Jan 1913 in the Peoria State Hospital, Peoria, IL.
Elizabeth Waddell Bishop DeWitt died 5 May 1925. Both are buried in Cuba Cem.
(Photos and biography submitted by Carol Carmichael)
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Left to right: Cordie, Rene and Ed |
(4 generations) 1915: L-R Elizabeth (Waddell) Bishop DeWitt, Pauline Juanita (Winkler) Rivers holding daughter Pauline Juanita Rivers, and Cordelia Belva 'Cordie' (Bishop) Winkler Read |
Henry Wages, farmer, Section 8; P.O., Canton. His father, Ephraim, was born in Maryland, and died in 1849; his mother, Nancy (Buckingham), was also born in Maryland, and died in September, 1870. Henry was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, in 1829; came, with his parents, to Fulton County in 1832, to Monterey in 1835, and to his present neighborhood in 1841; married Mary J. Brinager in 1856, Nancy J. Higgins, a native of Clark County, Ky, in 1861, and thirdly Mrs. Mary Bybee. Children -- John Henry, born November 25, 1867, and Clara K, born December 25, 1870, and died June 16, 1871. His second wife had 6 children by her first husband. Mr. W. owns 240 acres of land. Democrat. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 475, Banner Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Waggoner & Lutz, hardware dealers. These gentlemen became established in their business five years ago. They are the owners of the building they occupy-- a large substantial brick, erected by them. They carry a heavy stock of goods and transact a large business. This enterprising firm, in connection with their hardware, carry a full line of tinware, lime, cement, etc. J. C. Lutz, senior partner of the firm, is a native of Va., where he was born in the year 1828; growing to manhood there he received a liberal education, and during his youth was employed upon the old farm homestead. In 1855 he came West and settled in Astoria. During the spring of 1839 he embarked in the hardware business, and since that date has been identified with the business interests of Astoria. In 1858 he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy E. Morrow. Of this marriage 6 children were born, 4 of whom are living-- Chas. M., Minnie W., Dollie W. and Carrie (deceased), Daniel and John. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 464, Astoria Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Arthur Walker, attorney, of the firm of Whitney, Walker & Walker, is a son of the late Henry Walker, and was born in Canton, Aug. 15, 1854. He was educated partly at the Canton High School and began the study of law at the age of 19. He attended the law department of the Michigan University for 2 years, and July 4, 1877, on completion of his studies, was admitted to the Bar. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 578, Canton Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Daniel W. Walker was born in Windham county, Vt., in 1835. His father, Bliss Walker, was of the same county; Edward Walker, his grandfather, was one of the pioneers of the State of Vermont and a soldier in the Revolution. His mother was Lovina Newell, of the same place; left for Mississippi in 1852; returned to Rochester, Mass., and taught in the Academy for 2 years; came west in 1857 and located in Canton, and since has been closely engaged in business. He was married to Miss Mather E. Walter, daughter of Dr. James Walter, of Canton, in May, 1858. Lillie S., Mather E., Edward, Nellie and Frederick are their children. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 578, Canton Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Henry Walker, deceased, was a native of New York City. His parents were of Scotch descent and strong Presbyterians, and they determined to educate their son for the ministry; but before his studies, were completed, it not being agreeable to him, he left school and home when quite young and began for himself, although his parents were wealthy. He traveled quite extensively, both in Europe and the United States, and finally located at La Porte, Ind., doing a plastering and mason business. He came to Canton in 1834 and followed the same business for several years, and erected many of the prominent buildings. He held many responsible official positions, and was an active member of the Democratic party. During the last 16 years of his life, was actively engaged in the practice of law. He married at La Porte, Ind., Mary Hines. Their children both living and dead are: Emily, deceased; Jefferson, deceased; Job, who was County Treasurer from 1874 to '78 and now lives at Atlantic, la.; Alfred, Harriet and Leonidas, all deceased; and Meredith, Ann and Arthur, living in the county. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 578, Canton Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Hon. Meredith Walker, of the law firm of Whitney, Walker & Walker, was born at Canton in 1848, received his education at the Canton schools, read law from the age of 10 years, and was admitted to the Bar July 19, 1874. He was elected to the Illinois State Senate from the 25th District in 1878 and occupied a seat in that body during its 31st session. He is the youngest member of the Senate, being only 29 years old, when elected. He was married March 3, 1874, to Ada Hazen, daughter of John Hazen, of Canton. Mr. W. is a strong adherent to the Democratic party. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 578, Canton Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Hiram
Walters. This gentleman is numbered among the successful
agriculturalists of Farmers Township, having by dint of energy and prudent
management become the possessor of several hundred acres of the fine land for
which this county has become noted. The greater part of his life has been spent
within its confines, and probably no citizen now living has a more thorough
knowledge of the trials which were endured by the hardy pioneers and dangers
with which they were surrounded for many years. In recalling the surroundings of
his early life, Mr. Walters says that with Indians, snakes, wild cats and other
"varmint," life was scarcely worth living, and that he would not pass through
such a period again for all of Fulton County.
The father of our subject was William Walters, a native
of Jefferson County, Tenn., who was reared among the mountains, developing
qualities which well fitted him for the pioneer life which he took up in the
Prairie State. He was of mixed ancestry, his paternal grandmother having been
German and his mother of Irish stock. The latter belong to a family whose male
members took part in the Revolution, while the females not only carried on the
home work which had formerly been done by fathers, sons and brothers, but also
assisted the army by providing the Colonists with food whenever it was possible.
She, herself, carried provisions to the soldiers, sometimes wading in water to
her armpits, and at times being obliged to break the ice before she could ford
the streams. Her father and the father of her husband, both belonged to the
Continental Army, and from these sturdy ancestors the father of our subject
inherited much of his own valor.
William Walters married Elizabeth Royer, a native of
the same county as himself, and about 1820 they took up their abode in Sangamon
County, Ill. In 1825 they removed to this county, first locating near Lewistown
and then removing to section 9, Farmers Township, where they spent the remainder
of their lives, Mr. Walters living to the extreme age of ninety years. At the
time of their arrival in this county there were but twelve votes within its
present bounds. The Indians were so troublesome that Mr. Walters had to carry
his gun with him when he went to feed stock, having especial need of
watchfulness when he became known as a Captain of the Indian fighters, and so
obnoxious to the savages that they offered one hundred buckskins for his scalp.
He killed several red men who were endeavoring to obtain that coveted prize, and
the alertness which prevented the savages from getting the drop on him grew upon
him so that his sharp eyes would snap at an unexpected sound, and he was
continually casting quick glances about him.
Many stories are told of the physical powers of Mr.
Walters and his excellent markmanship. He could shoot a gun from his shoulder,
hitting the center instantly with an unrested weapon; could take a two-bushel
sack of wheat in his teeth and throw it over ten feet, and it is recorded that
at one time he shot a deer across Spoon River when the ice was floating, swam
the river, got the deer in the water, and taking its ear in his mouth brought it
back. This feat was accomplished in the presence of Jimmy Hale, who afterward
became his son-in-law. As may well be supposed, he was a member of the army
during the Black Hawk War. After the savages became hostile, his wife was always
nervous about him, and our subject well remembers her standing and wringing her
hands in agony as she watched his retreating form disappear in the woods. During
the later years of his life he had his second sight.
During the time when the Indians were peaceable, they
often camped near the home of the Walters, gathering by dozens and even by
hundreds. Our subject recalls the comical appearance made by the papooses who,
strapped fast to a board, were set around the porch, where their little black
eyes snapped at every movement within the range of their vision. The lad learned
many Indian phrases, such as "cho im," won't do it; "puika chee," to go off,
etc. At one time, when eleven years old, young Walters was in the woods,
accompanied by three dogs. He was startled by a wild cry proceeding from a lynx,
with which the dogs immediately closed, a fight following which is worthy of
record. The big bulldog got the animal by the neck, but the lynx would double
himself up and with the claws on his hind feet tear the bowels of the dog. Each
of the other dogs at last succeeded in getting hold of a hind leg, thus enabling
the large dog to choke the lynx to death. The lad then came up with a stick, and
finding the animal dead ordered off the dogs, two of whom were very seriously
injured, having their entrails protruding. He picked up the largest and started
toward home, two miles distant, calling for his father who at length answered
his cry, relieved him of his burden, and together they carried the dogs to the
house, where the wounds were sewed up and the animals nursed back to health. The
canines were valued in those dangerous regions, and as carefully cared for by
the people as were the children. At that time the nearest neighbor of the
Walters family was John Barker, whose home was two miles distant, and at Table
Grove, five miles away, live Mr. Nott.
In the year 1846 our subject was married to Miss Mary
Ann Hoyle, a native of Connecticut, whose parents had emigrated thither from
England. They afterward resided in the Buckeye State, whence they came to this
section of Illinois in 1844. Immediately after their marriage the young couple
took possession of a forty-acre tract of land in the woods, laboring together to
advance their fortunes, and, notwithstanding their primitive surroundings,
passing their happiest days in the little log cabin which they moved into before
it was chinked. The first morning they awoke to find their bed covered two
inches deep with snow. Mr. Walters hauled fifty bushels of corn to Bernadotte
and traded it for a little, square table, off which he and his wife ate their
first meal in their new home. They raised the flax which Mrs. Walters broke,
swingled, spun and wove, making a tick for their first bed, into which they put
straw. The little farm grew in extent to a tract of five hundred and forty
acres, and is now one of the finest estates in this section.
Our subject and his good wife have reared five
children--having lost three in infancy. The eldest, George W., is married and
has one daughter; he is a farmer operating a portion of his father's land in
Harris Township. Andrew J., also lives on a farm obtained from his father; he
has been married fourteen years but has no children; Olive, the wife of Franklin
Waid, and the mother of three children, occupies land given her by her father;
Cora Ann, wife of George Wilson, has three children, they being occupants of a
good farm purchased by the husband. Eva married I. Brown, has three children,
and is now living on an eighty-acre tract belonging to our subject.
Mr. Walters is Democratic in politics as was his
father, and has always taken an active interest in party affairs. He has served
a School Director, and held various township offices, serving faithfully in
every position to which he has been called. The family are identified with the
Christian Church, are looked upon with respect, and have many warm friends
wherever they are known.
(Portrait &
Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 457-458, submitted by
Danni Hopkins)
John A.
Walters, Esq., has been for many years prominently identified
with the agricultural interests of this county, and until recently was the
proprietor of a finely-improved farm on section 20, Cass Township. This farm,
for which he paid $1,650 was supplied with substantial improvements, including
neat and commodious buildings, and was in every respect well-improved and
well-managed. Mr. Walters is numbered among the influential citizens of
Smithfield, and here and in other towns where he has dwelt he has borne a
conspicuous part in the management of public affairs, holding many important
offices, and this community values him as one of its best members, whether as a
civic officer, or in his private capacity.
Mr. Walters was born March 27, 1825, amid the beautiful
scenes of Shenandoah Valley, Rockingham County, Va. His father, Thomas V.
Walters, was also a native of the Old Dominion. The family was an old Virginian
family which had its origin in Germany. The first to come to this country
arrived about the time of the Revolution, and served in a Virginian regiment
during that struggle. The mother of our subject was Polly Woods, and her family
came from Wales to this country, and located in Virginia.
The parents of our subject were married in Virginia,
and there made their home until after the mother's death. The father then bound
out his children, and went to Kentucky, where he stayed a short time. His next
move was to the pioneer settlements of Illinois in 1836. He located at
Centerville, now Cuba, where he established himself in the mercantile business.
He afterward bought some land in Cass Township, and opened up a farm there, his
death occurring at an advanced age, March 12, 1871. He had married a second time
in Kentucky, but his wife is now deceased. Four of the ten children born to him
of his first marriage, grew to maturity. Two of the four children of his second
marriage are now living.
John Walters was bound out at ten years of age to a
farmer, and staid with him until he was seventeen years of age. He suffered much
from the hard treatment that he received at the hands of his cruel master, and
he and his twin brother Parmenas A. were so abused that they finally took
courage to run away, and left their places "between two days," starting out on
foot for Illinois. They had to hide in the day-time in the mountains, to avoid
pursuit, and only traveled at night. They finally made their way to their father
at Cuba, and our subject was sent to school, and in the spring went to work for
a farmer near Waterford. We next hear of him in Wisconsin, where he was employed
in breaking prairie, and digging for minerals. In the fall of 1848 he returned
to Virginia on a visit, and staid there eighteen months. When he came back to
Cuba, he brought his sister with him. The ensuing year he was engaged in working
around.
Mr. Walters was married in 1851, to Esther Wilson, a
daughter of William and Esther (Rumsey) Wilson, natives respectively of Ireland
and Philadelphia. Her father was a sailor for seven years, and came to Illinois
in 1830 with his family, and was one of the early pioneers of Bernadotte
Township. Both he and his wife are now dead. Mrs. Walters was born in March,
1831. She died in 1856, and both the children born of her marriage are now
deceased. Mr. Walter's second marriage which was consummated November 3, 1859,
was with Mary Carpenter. She was born February 2, 1840, in Fayette County, Ohio,
and received her education in the district schools. Her parents were George and
Mary (Graham) Carpenter, natives respectively of Virginia and Maryland. After
their marriage they lived in Ohio fifteen years, then in Indiana seven years,
and from there removed back to Ohio, and lived there nine years and then came to
Fulton County, Ill. Their marriage had been solemnized in Fayette County, Ohio,
and it was the year 1856 when they settled in McDonough County, this State. They
afterward lived nine years in Cass Township, and then bought a farm between Cuba
and Smithfield. He died June 20, 1874, and she April 20, 1882. The following
five of their nine children are still living: William, who lives in Cuba;
Elizabeth, the wife of Robert Quillan; Fannie, wife of George Maguire, of Cuba,
Mrs. Walters, and Albert O., of Smithfield.
After his first marriage, our subject settled on a farm
on section 13, Cass Township, where J. M. Herbert now resides. He remained there
but a short time, however, and when his twin brother went to California, they
divided up the property, and our subject sold out his share and bought a place
on section 24, Bernadotte Township. He soon disposed of that place, and
purchased an eighty-acre farm in Bureau County. Later he came back to this
county and invested in eighty acres of land on section 25, Cass Township, and
then sold his Bureau County property to Alexander Hull. After six months
residence in Cass Township, he sold out there to William Wilson, and again
bought two hundred acres on section 18, and removed to that place. After the
death of his wife he took up his residence in Cuba, and was engaged in the
mercantile business there for about a year. In the meantime he invested in a
ninety acre tract on the west line of this county. He closed his business in
Cuba and returned to farming.
Mr. Walters and his present wife began their wedded
life on the farm mentioned on section 18, and spent two years there. He then
purchased the estate which is now the property of Samuel Baughman, and there
eight years were passed. At the expiration of that time he sold and bought the
southeast quarter of section 17, and actively engaged in its cultivation fifteen
years before he disposed of it, and became the proprietor of a place in
Smithfield, upon which he dwelt five years. He bought one hundred and sixty-four
acres on section 30, and rented it, and then bought the Philip Derst place. He
finally sold his out of town property, and removed to a farm on section 20,
which he sold two months later, and then bought the farm which he sold in 1890.
He now owns eight acres of finely tilled land, of which seven and one-half acres
are within the corporate limits of Smithfield, and also has six lots in
Quillan's Addition.
Mr. Walters has seen and experienced much of pioneer
life, and has contributed his quota towards bringing about the great change that
has been wrought by the hand of man in making this a well-developed wealthy
country since he came here on foot when a boy. Wherever he has dwelt he has been
looked upon as a man of sound understanding and excellent business qualities,
whose character for honor, truthfulness and unimpeachable integrity was of the
highest. His fellow citizens have felt they could safely trust important offices
in his hands, feeling assured that the duties resting upon him would be
discharged faithfully and without fear or favor. Thus he has been School
Director for years, Justice of the Peace for a period of twenty-four years, is
serving his second term as Notary Public, was several times Supervisor of Cass
Township, and was Township Assessor for four terms, besides serving as Grand
Juryman for years. He is a member of Cuba Lodge, A. F. & A. M., having been a
charter member of the same. He is a man of considerable education and of great
intelligence, and since he came to Fulton County he has taught five terms of
school. His principles as a politician are strongly Democratic, and also favor
temperance, he being a zealous Prohibitionist. We may remark in this connection
that Mrs. Walters takes an intelligent interest in politics, and is a stanch
Republican. They are both active and influential in religious matters, he being
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a Steward and Trustee thereof,
while she belongs to the United Brethren Church. They both possess genial, sunny
temperaments, know well how to enjoy life, and are social favorites, their
pleasant home being the center of genuine hospitality which attracts a large
circle of friends and acquaintances.
(Portrait &
Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 428-430, submitted by
Danni Hopkins)
Thomas H. Walters, farmer; P.O., Ipava; a son of the old pioneer, Daniel Walters; was born in Alabama January 6, 1847; came with his parents to this county in 1849; has been elected Constable, but would not serve; was therefore fined $5 for not obeying the commands of the people. Was married August, 1852, to Miss Phoebe Litchfield, of Ohio, and this union has been blessed with three children, 2 of whom are living -- Henry and Genevra. Owns about 300 acres of fine land. Democrat. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 513, Bernadotte Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Edward Wampler, farmer, Section 36; P.O., Astoria. In 1818, there was born to Philip and Catharine Wampler, nee Royer, in the state of Maryland, the subject of this sketch, Edward Wampler. He had attained his tenth year when his parents settled in Ohio, and there he grew up and married. This event occurred in 1837, and Miss Elizabeth Stover was the bride. Eleven children have been given to them. For nearly 20 years he was a resident of Missouri, where he became a prominent farmer, owning some 1,500 acres of land. While there his wife died, and in 1875 he was united in marriage with Mrs. Rebecca Sprinkle. Mrs. W. was born in Pennsylvania and there married Daniel Sprinkle, who afterwards became a prominent farmer in this county. Of this marriage 8 children were born, 5 of whom are living, -- Sarah, Henry, Daniel, Levi and Mary. The valuable property left by Mr. Sprinkle comprises between 500 and 600 acres of fine land. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 464, Astoria Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
James Watkins, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 32; P. O., Lewistown; born in Indiana in 1824; his father, James W., was born in Kentucky, where he married Christiana Swarmseby whom he had 12 children, James jr., being the 3d; the latter was in his 3d year when the family settled in Menard Co., Ill., where he subsequently married a daughter of Thos. Whitely, of Ky., and they have had 11 children, 4 now living. His first wife died, and in 1871 he married Mrs. Nancy Butler, widow of T. J. Butler, of Kerton tp. Mr. W. served in the Mexican war and was honorably discharged at Metamoras. He moved from Menard to Mason county, taught school and followed farming until 1856, when he moved to this county and some time afterward bought the 80-acre tract on which he now lives. Was Justice of the Peace in Mason Co., and School Director in this county. Old School Baptists. Democrat. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, pages 816-817, Lewistown Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
J. M. Watson.
It is impossible in a brief biographical sketch to render full justice to
prominent men, and yet there are some who are so intimately and clearly
identified with the county's welfare, and whose names are so familiar to all
that it is only justice to dwell upon what they have done and the influence of
their career upon others, not as empty words of praise, but the plain statement
of a plain truth. To this class belongs J. M. Watson, commonly called "Roe"
Watson, Assessor of Cass Township, who is a young man of indisputable ability,
and good business habits, and one alike popular in social and mercantile
circles. He is an active, wide-awake farmer, and has won great success in
pursuing this, his favorite occupation.
Our subject's birth occurred on section 29, this
township in the 19th of July, 1852, he being the son of John D. and Catharine
(Cameron) Watson, natives of Indiana and Illinois, respectively. His father is
numbered among the pioneer settlers in this State, and experienced all the
hardships and privations incidental to a residence in an undeveloped country. He
was called upon to mourn the loss of his beloved wife in 1856. To them had been
born three children, all of whom reached maturity, but of whom our subject is
the only one living at the present writing. His father was married again and now
makes his home in Oregon.
The subject of our sketch was the recipient of a
common-school education, but at an early age manifested a lively interest in
educational matters, and an amount of industry and integrity of purpose that
could but result in success. Following the footsteps of his father he has always
devoted his attention to farming, with the exception of a few years during which
time he tried railroading. At the early age of twenty-one he commenced to make a
business record for himself, and is now the owner of a valuable estate near
Smithfield, and also of an elegant residence.
Mr. Watson was married April 3, 1873, to Miss Mary C.
Cable, daughter of Solomon Cable, and immediately after his marriage settled
upon his present farm, which comprises one hundred and forty acres of excellent
land all in a body, one hundred acres of which are in a state of perfect
cultivation. Besides agriculture, he is also largely interested in
stock-raising, buying and selling all the time.
To Mr. and Mrs. Watson have been born six children,
viz: Carrie B., Sadie C., Josie M., James H., John H., and William E., all of
whom are living at the present date. Our subject is a member of Smithfield Lodge
No. 103, I. O. O. F., and has held the office of Treasurer, and others of equal
importance. He takes an active interest in political issues, voting the
Democratic ticket, and has at various times been a delegate to conventions. His
interest in school matters is very pronounced, and his children are all
receiving excellent instruction. Mr. Watson is classed among the pre-eminently
successful agriculturists of Cass Township, and has lost no opportunity for
improving his estate, or contributing to the general welfare of the community
who hold him in such high esteem.
(Portrait &
Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 345-346, submitted by
Janine Crandell)
Henry Waughtel. The subject of this sketch was born in Hocking Co., O., June 27, 1812; removed with his father to Richland Co. in 1814, thence to Fountain Co., Ind., in '25, thence to Putman township, Fulton Co., Ill., in '27. He helped build the fort on A. C. Moore's farm; has been a resident of Cass township since 1828, except a little over 4 years, which was spent in the lead mines of Wisconsin; gained a fortune there, but was swindled out of it by worthless men. When young was very fond of fishing and hunting, in which the young of early days engaged frequently. He witnessed the deep snow in 1830, which killed animals, turkeys and game by the thousands. On a hunting expedition after the snow he found 21 dead deer and but one live one. The Indian ponies nearly all perished in this snow. Mr. W. was the first man to step out to the music when the call for volunteers was made in 1832 to put down the Black Hawk war. David W. Barnes was Captain and Thomas W. Clark and Asa Langford Lieutenants. The company went to Dixon on Rock river, and from there Gov. Reynolds sent them up the river, there being but 217 men, including officers, to meet the foe. On the evening of the second day's march they camped on Sycamore creek. While sporting and congratulating one Mr. Paul, who had shot two Indians that afternoon, a dozen Indians made their appearance on the bank of the creek. The excited men ran after the Indians at full speed. The remaining men formed in line and marched to meet the enemy. When they drew in sight they were outnumbered. Mr. W. says there were over 2,000 red-skins. Before they were aware of it they were nearly surrounded. The Indians, led by Black Hawk, made a fearful charge and the Fulton county boys were routed, losing 11 men. This battle was known as Stillman's defeat. He also states that the Indians had a drum. Mr. H. engaged in the mercantile business and failed in 1839. He married Margaret Markley Aug. 10, '37, and is the father of 12 children; is a member of the M. E. Church ; is local preacher. Converted at C. P. camp-meeting in 1831. Was the first Supervisor for Cass tp. P. O., Cuba. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, pages 599-600, Cass Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Martin M. Waughtel. Among the young farmers of this county are many who are pursuing their course in life with great energy and much skill, and thereby attaining satisfactory results. One of this number is the gentleman above named, who is located on section 26, Cass Township, occupying the farm on which his birth took place August 23,1859. His estate consists of one hundred acres, nearly all of which is improved, and he carries on general agricultural work, raising both grain and stock. Cattle and hogs are the domestic animals which he raises in the greatest numbers, but he has some fine specimens of horseflesh, among them a team of three-year old Normans, weighing three thousand and thirty-five pounds.
Henry Waughtel, the father of our subject, was born in Ohio in 1812, but former generations of the family had lived in Virginia. He married Margaret Markley, a native of the same State as himself, their marriage taking place in this State, to which both had come in childhood. Mr. Waughtel belonged to a family which was one of the first to make a settlement in this part of the Mississippi Valley. He was the first Supervisor of Cass Township, taking the office in 1850. He fought during the Black Hawk War. He breathed his last in 1885, but his widow still lives and nine of their twelve children survive.
Our subject received a good common-school education and from early boyhood was accustomed to take part in farm work, to which he has continued to give his attention. He began life for himself when twenty years old, marrying Philena Orwig, a daughter of John and Amanda (Hancock) Orwig, who were old settlers in this county. The young couple took possession of forty acres of land owned by the husband, which he operated successfully. His wife, who was born in 1863, died in August, 1884, leaving two sons—John and Milton. Mr. Waughtel was again married in September, 1885, his bride being Sarah M. Hinderliter, a daughter of Julius Hinderliter, who was one of the old settlers of Cass Township. This lady was born in 1862, received a good education in the common schools, and the home training which fitted her for the duties of a home-keeper. She has borne her husband two children, one of whom is now living, a son, William.
Mr. Waughtel has from his early manhood been more or less closely connected with the public affairs of the section in which he lives. He became School Director in District No. 6 as soon as he was old enough to hold the office and is still its incumbent. At the age of twenty-three years he was elected Township Collector and served in that capacity until elected Supervisor, in which he is now serving his fourth term. He has always taken an active interest in politics and is one of the principal workers in the township; he has been a delegate to county conventions and is now a committeeman. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 200-201, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Henry I. Weaver is numbered among the enterprising stock farmers of Deerfield Township. He sells but a portion of grain but devotes the entire produce of his farm to the stock which he raises and buys. His home is on the old homestead, which consists of eighty acres on section 3, all under good cultivation, well improved and abundantly supplied with whatever is needful in order to successfully prosecute the owner's occupation. Mr. Weaver is a representative of a family long known and highly honored in this county, where settlement was made by his grandparents in the spring of 1835. During the period of more than half a century that has elapsed since then, the record of the family and those who have married into it has been one of exceptional morality. Not only have they been free from habitual profanity, drunkenness and other vices, but they have also escaped arrest for any cause however slight, and have lived in peace and harmony with those about them.
William Weaver, grandfather of our subject, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1791. His wife Mary Cornwell, was born in Washington County May 14,1797, and their marriage rites were celebrated at Cannonsbury. In April, 1835, the couple located on section 2, Deerfield Township, this county, where the wife died April 19,1855, and the husband April 11,1879. In the family of this good couple was a son Joshua, whose birth took place in Green County, Pa., December 30, 1820. After reaching years of maturity he won for his wife Eliza A. Martin, who was born in Muhlenburg County, Ky., May 19, 1826, but at the time of her marriage was living in this county. The wedding took place in Deerfield Township October 21,1851, and the union has resulted in the birth of three sons and one daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Weaver are now living in Ellisville.
The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch is the third son born to the couple just mentioned, and opened his eyes to the light of day March 6, 1859. He has spent his entire life in the township among whose citizens he has high rank, and to her public schools owes his educational training. He remained an inmate of his parents' home until his marriage, when he established himself on the homestead, buying the land from his father. The lady whom he won for his helpmate and companion and with whom he was united in marriage December 20, 1882, bore the maiden name of Marmry E. Mitchell. She is a daughter of Mathew H. and Calphurnia (Wheeler) Mitchell, and like her husband, was born in Deerfield Township, her natal day having been May 24, 1863. Her father was born in Montgomery County, this State, and her mother in New York.
Mr. and Mrs. Weaver of this sketch are the parents of three bright boys—Harry Dale, born August 12, 1883; Joshua Clare, born April 13, 1885; Ross, born September 26, 1889. Mr. Weaver is a Republican and takes sufficient interest in politics to be at the polls every election day and cast a straight ballot. He has served in the capacity of Township Supervisor and School Director. He and his wife belong to Ellisville Lodge, No. 401, I. O. G. T., and are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Weaver is Recording Secretary of the congregation at the Sharon Church and Superintendent of the Sunday-school, and takes a deep interest in church work. He and his wife are highly regarded by the members of the community, perpetuating as they are the excellent record of the Weaver family. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 266-267, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Joshua Weaver
is one of the oldest and most honored citizens of Fulton County. He is a retired
farmer, now living in Ellisville. Although he has suffered from rheumatism for
many years, he has not lost his entertaining ways and jovial spirits, but
retains the social qualities which, added to his upright character, make him
well liked wherever he is known.
Mr. Weaver comes of a good family, his paternal
grandfather, the Hon. Isaac Weaver, having been a prominent man in the Keystone
State. He was born in Philadelphia and became a farmer in Greene County, owning
one thousand acres of land. He subsequently engaged in the sale of general
merchandise in Carmichaels, successfully pursuing that calling and becoming
wealthy. He was elected to the State Senate in 1816, served two terms and then
filled the office of Auditor of State several years. He was of English descent
and zealous in the Quaker belief, to which he had been reared. He lived to be
more than fourscore years old.
The father of our subject, William Weaver, was born in
the Keystone State, reared on a farm and engaged in agriculture in Greene
County, having land near Clarksville. He became an influential citizen of that
locality. In 1835 he emigrated to Illinois, locating in Deerfield Township, this
county. He bought eighty acres of land there, began its improvement and six
months later purchased three hundred and twenty acres of Government land in
Young Hickory Township. There he built a double log house, which was finally
replaced by a better edifice. He lived there until the death of his wife, when
he broke up housekeeping and resided with his children. He possessed the quiet
ways peculiar to the Friends and retained his religious belief until death. In
politics he was originally a Whig and later a Republican. He was once a
candidate on the Whig ticket for member of the Legislature, but as his party was
in the minority he was not elected. He died in Young Hickory Township in 1877,
at the age of eighty-eight years.
The wife of William Weaver and mother of our subject
was Mary Cornwell. She was born and reared in Washington County, Pa., and
possessed many sterling qualities. Her father was engaged in boating on the Ohio
River, dying at Maysville, in Kentucky. The family of which our subject is the
third member includes also Mrs. Abigail Reed, whose home is near Glasford,
Peoria County, Ill.; Isaac, who died in Prairie City, in February, 1890; David,
who died in Canton when thirty years old and while he was studying medicine;
Nancy, who died at Yates City, Ill., twenty-five years ago, was the wife of Dr.
Burson, of that place; and Mrs. Mary Dodds, of Chattanooga, Tenn.
Joshua Weaver was born near Carmichaels, Greene County, Pa.,
December 31, 1820. He was a child of five years when his father removed to
Castile Run, near Clarksville, where he was reared on a farm. He attended school
in the old-fashioned structure which has been so frequently described, doing his
writing with a quill pen and having but few text books. He early learned to work
and until fourteen years old drove cattle and horses in a hilly country. He well
remembers the journey to this State, which took place in April, 1835. The party
drove four miles to Mononaghela, embarked on a boat which conveyed them to
Pittsubrg, and by the rivers they continued their journey to St. Louis and
thence to Beardstown. Fourteen days were consumed on the route.
The family remained at Beardstown three months while
the father looked for land, traveling about on horseback. He selected a tract
and the family went thither in a wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen. There were
very few settlers in the neighborhood and wild game was still plentiful in the
timber and on the unbroken prairies. A wolf hunt was a source of excitement, and
several are recalled by our subject, whose father also killed a deer. After
coming here the lad had but three months schooling, being kept busy in helping
to develop the farm. He drove a breaking team, mauled rails, and assisted his
father in various ways until his marriage in the spring of 1842.
Mr. Weaver then rented land in Deerfield Township and
after a few years bought eighty acres on section 3. There he improved and built
upon the land, adding to his acreage from time to time until he possessed two
hundred acres in that and two hundred and eighty in Young Hickory township, for
which he paid from $5 to $40 per acre. It is now improved so as to form four
distinct farms, which have been divided among his children, except a quarter
section, which Mr. Weaver retains, but since September, 1885, has rented it and
lived in Ellisville. The land has been devoted to the cultivation of grains and
the raising of stock, high grades of which were always to be seen there. Forty
acres are left in timber. Although Mr. Weaver has been a physical sufferer since
1858, often confined to his couch, he superintended the estate until his removal
to the village.
The lady whom Mr. Weaver won for his wife, in April,
1842, was Mary A., daughter of John Dykeman. She was born in Indiana, but came
hither with her parents in 1837. She passed away in the spring of 1850, leaving
three children. The oldest, Mary E., was a student in Abingdon College and is
now the wife of D. M. Lawson, a farmer in Deerfield township; John William, who
died at the age of seven years; Harmon, who studied in Hedding College, moved to
California on account of the health of his wife, and now operates a fruit farm
there.
Our subject was married October 21, 1851, to Eliza Ann
Martin, who has lived in this county since 1830, and is therefore one of the
oldest residents now living. She was born in Muhlenberg County, Ky., in 1826,
and reared in this locality with the privileges of the common schools. She is
the mother of four children. James A. is farming in Deerfield Township, Martin
in Young Hickory Township, and Henry I. operates the homestead; Martha J. is the
wife of G. L. Fisk, an undertaker in Ellisville.
Mrs. Weaver is a granddaughter of Hugh Martin, a
Virginian, who made one of the Daniel Boone colony in Kentucky. One of his
children was the first born in that State. Like his associates, he carried on
farm work, although on account of the Indians the families lived in stockades
for several years. He died in Millersburg County. The father of Mrs. Weaver was
John H. Martin, who was born near Lexington, February 22, 1789. He was reared in
his native State and there married a young lady of an equally good Southern
family. He began school teaching when seventeen years old and followed that
occupation during a great part of his life, adding to it the cultivation of the
soil.
In the fall of 1828 Mr. Martin located in Jefferson
County, Ill., teaching there two years. He then came to this county, spending
the winter of the deep snow in Smithfield. In the spring of 1831 he bought
eighty acres of land in Farmers' Township, which he improved, teaching also for
years. In the fall of 1835 he changed his location to Deerfield Township,
entering eighty acres on section 1. After a few years he removed to Fairview,
where he clerked. In 1843 he returned to the farm, remaining there until his
wife's death, after which he made his home with his children. He died at the
home of his eldest son, in Lyon County, Kan., in 1871. He was the first
Supervisor of Deerfield Township and was Justice of the Peace for years.
Religiously, he was a Presbyterian.
The mother of Mrs. Weaver bore the maiden name of
Martha Summers. She was a daughter of William Summers, who, like herself, was
born in North Carolina, and who is numbered among the early settlers of
Kentucky. She became the mother of five children, Mrs. Weaver being the second
in order of birth. Thomas C. died in Emporia, Kan.; William A. was killed at the
close of the war; Charles C. died in Greenwood County, Kan.; James H. has not
been heard of by his friends for some time and his fate is uncertain. William A.
enlisted, in 1862, in a Missouri cavalry regiment and became Captain of a
company. He served until the close of the war and near Little Rock was shot from
ambush, presumably for his money, as he was robbed.
The subject of this sketch has been a School Director
nearly all his life and has aided in building several schoolhouses. He served as
Commissioner of Highways several terms, was Assessor two years and Supervisor of
Deerfield Township for three years. After having voted with the Whig party in
early life, he became a stanch Republican and has frequently acted as delegate
in county and Congressional conventions. He has served on the grand and petit
juries, and as foreman of the former. He was identified with the Cumberland
Presbyterian Church, which is now extinct in this vicinity, and held the office
of Elder.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of
Fulton County, 1890, pages 386-388, submitted by Danni Hopkins)
Zechariah Weaver, merchant, Monterey; P.O., Canton. His parents were Jacob and Jane (Patchell), the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania and died November 2, 1840. They emigrated from Ohio to this State, arriving November 8, 1841. Zechariah was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, November 30, 1830, educated in the country schools, and March 8, 1854, married Rachel A. Rogers in Liverpool township; she was born in Saline County, Missouri, September 18, 1830. Children: Benjamin F., born 1858, and died 1864; Maria, February 21, 1861, died in 1862; Emma Jane, April 18, 1862. Mr. W. was formerly a farmer and has been School Director and Pastmaster [Postmaster?]. Methodist Protestant. Democrat. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 475, Banner Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
John J. Weese, farmer, sec. 32; 65 acres; P.O., Summum; was born in Tennessee Nov. 14,’30, son of W.F. and Nancy Weese, both natives of Tennessee; in ‘43 came to this county with an ox team; married here in ‘59, Miss Clara I.____ , who was born in this county in ‘43; they are the parents of 9 children,---- May E., Wilson P., William J., John E., James A., Nancy J., Cary E., Joseph F., and Everett E. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 863, Pleasant Township section, submitted by Carla Hicks)
Pleasant Weese, sec. 28; P.O., Summum; came with his father to this state in ‘42; in ‘64 he married Mary J. France, who was born in Illinois in ‘46; they have had 7 children, 3 of whom are living, ----Oliver P., Emma J., and Archie; deceased --- Lenna, Willie, Laura and Henry. Mr. Weese commenced with little, but is now in comfortable circumstances. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 863, Pleasant Township section, submitted by Carla Hicks)
Samuel Weese, agriculturist, is a native of East Tenn., Knox Co., where he was born Feb. 16, ‘14, of Dutch descent. His father John Weese, was born in Virginia. Married Susan Mamuck ; 3 sons and 6 daughters blessed this union, of whom Samuel was the 3rd child. John Weese was a soldier in the was of 1812, serving through the whole campaign. Samuel spent his boyhood in Tennessee. Feb. 18, 1834 he married Rebecca Weese a daughter of John Weese, who was born in England, and whose wife, Susan nee Spencer ,was born in Germany. In 1836 Mr. W. with his family came to Indiana, locating in Parke Co. At the end of 3 years they came to Woodland tp. About 5 years afterward Mr. W. purchased 160 acres of land; is now the owner of 220 acres. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 967, Woodland Township section, submitted by Carla Hicks)
Thomas Weese, who ranks among the prosperous
agriculturists of Pleasant Township, was born in Fulton County July 2nd, 1849.
His parents, John and Elizabeth, commonly called Betsy, Weese, were among the
early settlers of this county, the father having been born in the State of
Tennessee. He was quite a young man when he came here, and was three times
married, our subject being the only child born to his first marriage. He settled
in Pleasant Township while the country around here was scarcely more than a
"forest primeval" and like most of the pioneers was forced to endure many
hardships and privations. He was a man possessing great strength of character
and excellent judgment, and was largely instrumental in bringing about the
wonderful transformation that changed a land covered with timber to fertile and
valuable farms. He was, in politics, in sympathy with the Democratic party, and
took great interest in supporting all political matters that tended to the
improvement of county and State. He also exerted great influence in social
circles and was a man much beloved and respected by his neighbors. He left a
large and valuable estate, at the time of his death.
The subject of our sketch inherited sufficient money to
give him a good start in life, and the scenes familiar to his childhood are all
in this county, and his interest in the progress of Pleasant Township is
therefore naturally very great. He has at all times given his attention to
agriculture and is a most successful and enterprising farmer, having cultivated
his lands after the most improved methods and making a real science of farming.
His educational advantages were the best that time afforded, but he received
none of the polish of the higher branches of study that one finds at the present
time in the schools throughout the country. The schoolhouse he attended was
merely a little log cabin and the furniture within was truly primitive in
character, consisting of split-slab seats, and other things quite in keeping
with these. A ruder construction could scarcely be imagined, and situated as it
was in the midst of an uncultivated country it presented a picture that lingers
long in memory. Our subject has always been fond of reading and has taken much
pleasure in keeping posted on literary matters of the day. He is a most elegant
and cultured gentleman and one whose many excellent traits are fully appreciated
by the community in which he resides.
Mr. Weese married Miss Maggie Athy, a native of Mason
County, Ill., and to this union have been born six children, four of whom are
now living--Dickson, Hattie, Effie and Mary. Our subject owns one hundred and
fifty-four acres of valuable land, all of which is well cultivated. He is a
member of the Democratic party and a strong supporter of his party principles.
He is a man well and favorably known and one whom we are pleased to represent in
our ALBUM.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890,
page 363, submitted by Danni Hopkins)
Ferdinand Weirather, a well-to-do farmer, resident of Lewistown Township, was born in Baden, Germany, on January, 1825. His father, Francis Joseph Weirather, was a native of the same place. He was a shoemaker by trade, and spent his entire live in the Fatherland. He was a descendant of an ancient family that emigrated from Italy to Germany during the Roman conquest.
Ferdinand was the only son of his father, and was very young when the latter died. He was cared for by his mother and stepfather and received a sound education in the schools of his native land, which he attended until he was fourteen years old. At that age he was apprenticed to learn the trade of a cabinet-maker at which he served two and one-half years. At the expiration of that time, as was then the custom, he traveled and worked in different cities in Germany the ensuing three years. He was ambitious to better his condition and in March, 1846, emigrated to America to find what life held for him here. He went first to Liverpool, England, and from there set sail on a vessel bound for these shores and landed at New York after a voyage of thirty-five days. A stranger in a strange land who could not talk the language of its people and without money, our subject was in a forlorn condition when he arrived. But with good courage he set out to find work, and soon obtained employment at his trade in the city. He remained in New York two years, and then went to New Orleans. After a short stay there he ascended the Mississippi River to Quincy and worked there for a time. He then boarded a steamer bound for Peoria, but on his arrival at that place he was disappointed to find it a much smaller village than he expected, so he did not land but kept on to Peru, and thence went by canal to Chicago. That city was not then a very large town and though he could get work there he could not get his pay in cash, but had to take it in orders on a store. That did not suit him so he concluded to go further eastward and pushed on to Buffalo by the way of the Lakes and then by railroad and Hudson River, and finally found himself once again in New York City. He secured employment in a piano factory and remained there until 1855.
In that year our subject returned to Illinois, and for one year worked at his trade in Peoria. During that time he visited Fulton County, and bought the farm where he now resides which is pleasantly located on section 6, Lewistown Township. He settled on the place in 1856 and has since made his home here. His farm is one of the choice farms of the township, is under excellent cultivation and is provided with neat and well-built frame buildings and everything for carrying on agriculture advantageously.
Mr. Weirather has proved as capable a farmer as he has shown himself to be a skilled mechanic, and has been well prospered in his agricultural ventures. He is a man of sold virtues, sensible and thoughtful in his views, and in him and his wife the Baptist Church finds two Christian members.
Mr. Weirather was married in 1850 to Nathalie Weidensee, a native of Saxony, Germany. They have been eminently happy in their domestic relations and have been blessed by ten children: Ferdinand, Edward J., Herman, Amelia, Charles, Mary, Ida, George, Sidney and Harrie, all living. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, page 490, submitted by Danni Hopkins)
Ferdinand Weirather, sec. 6; P. O., Lewistown; born in Germany Jan. 1, 1825; has always been a farmer, working at times, however, at cabinet-making; came to Illinois in 1846, spent 9 months in Peoria in 1856, then came to this place; he married in New York city, in 1850, a lady who was born in Germany in 1830; they have 10 children,—F. W., Edward, Henson, Amelia, Charles, Mary, Ida, George, Sidney and Henry F. Baptist. Has been School Director. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 817, Lewistown Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
James K. Welch, m. d., is one of the most eminent physicians practicing his profession within the limits of this county, and he is also closely connected with its business interests as a druggist in Cuba, his place of residence, and with its public life as Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors.
The Doctor is a native of Nelson County, Ky., born September 4, 1845. His father, James W., was also a native of Kentucky as was his mother, whose maiden name was Mary Swazey. They married and lived in that State until 1848, and then took up their residence among the pioneers of McDonough County, this State, where they remained until their death; the mother died in 1856 and the father in 1878. At one time he was engaged in business at Blandinsville.
Our subject was one of eighteen children of whom eight are now living. When four years old he accompanied his parents to Illinois and received his elementary education in the district schools of McDonough County. During his youth he received a severe wound which prevented his entering the army when the Rebellion broke out. He had a decided talent for medicine, and entered upon his studies for that profession with enthusiasm, was graduated with honor from the Keokuk Medical College in the class of '65 and is a fine exponent of the Allopathic school of medicine.
After leaving college, Dr. Welch established himself as a physician in Cuba, and for twenty-four years has been in active practice. He has a large patronage that extends far beyond the limits of the village and township, having an experience of twenty-five years in this locality and being immensely popular with all classes. Seven years ago he opened a drug store here on the northwest corner of the Square, a year and a half ago removed to the northeast corner where he is now located, his office being in the store. He is carrying on a fine business and has here a well-stocked, commodious store, replete with all the appointments of the best establishments in the county.
The energy of our subject has by no means been confined to the management of his practice and his drug business, but he has engaged in various enterprises. In 1878 he opened a livery stable and for some time managed an extensive business. In 1868 he bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Putman Township and carried it on by proxy for several years but he now rents both the livery barn and the farm.
Dr. Welch and Miss Malinda Clayberg were married in 1868. Their wedded life was happy but was too soon brought to a close by the early death of Mrs. Welch in 1874. She left two children—Lucy B. and Maggie M.—the latter of whom lives with her uncle Dr. P. C. Clayberg, now of St Louis. Our subject was married again in 1878 to Elizabeth E. Wilson, daughter of William H. and Margaret (Laswell) Wilson, who were among the oldest pioneer families of this county. Her mother died in 1884. Her father still survives at the age of seventy years. Mrs. Welch was born in this county in 1856 and received her education in the public schools. She is a fine woman in every respect, devoted to the interests of her husband and children and knows well how to care for her household. The following four children have been born of this marriage, Roy, Mamie, James W., and Ethel Fay.
Prominent in the medical world and in the business circles of this part of Illinois, Dr. Welch is also pre-eminent in its public life, as a man of his progressive mind, executive and financial ability is needed to aid in the guidance of civic affairs and he has held many offices of responsibility with distinction. He has been a member of the Town Council and President of that honorable body for years. He is serving his sixth term as one of the County Board of Supervisors, representing Putman Township, and is now acting for a second time as Chairman of the Board, he having served in that capacity in 1888. He has always been a Democrat and stands high in the councils of his party.
In 1886 our subject was appointed United States Examiner of Pensions and still retains that position by request of the old soldiers of this county, although a Republican administration is at the head of national affairs. He is a member of the Masonic Order at Cuba and has been Secretary of the same. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Cuba, is identified with the Ancient Order of United Workmen and is Medical Examiner and a member of the Modern Woodmen and also of the Mutual Aid Society. He and his wife are among the leading members of the Christian Church of which he has been a Trustee, and she has been actively identified with the Sunday-school. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Fulton County, 1890, pages 229-230, submitted by Janine Crandell)
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James K. Welch, M. D., Cuba, whose portrait we give in this book, was born in Nelson Co., Ky., Sept. 4, 1845, and is the son of James W. and Mary (Swazey) Welch, both of Kentucky. His father died July 27, 1878, in McDonough Co., Ill.; his mother at the same place in 1859. Dr. W, was brought into the State at the age of 3 years, and was educated at Blandisville. He received his professional education at the Iowa Medical University, graduating in 1865, and June of the following year located at Cuba and has continued in practice to the present. He served as President of the Town Board, and was in the hospital service 8 months. His first wife was Hulinda Clayberry, the mother of 2 of his girls. She died Sept. 23, 1874. He married E. E. Wilson, Feb. 21, 1878. They have one child, a son. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, page 878-879, Putman Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
Christopher Wetsel, farmer and stock-raiser, Section 21; P.O. Astoria. There are few in the county more generally or favorably known than Mr. Wetzel, who was born in Cumberland County, Pa. July 13, 1813. His father, as near as can be ascertained, was also a native of the Keystone state, and by trade a blacksmith. He was married to Miss Catharine Wunderly. Three of the 9 children she bore him grew to mature years, and two yet survive. The head of the family died during the infancy of Christopher. His mother was afterwards married to Balseer Lutz and moved to Virginia. Christopher grew up amid pioneer associations, and we suppose became early instructed in the rudiments of hard work, his main education. While living in Augusta County, Va., he was married to Miss Sarah Cook. And 1836 he came to Astoria township and moved into the pioneer log cabin, containing no fire-place. He built one, however, of sod. The winter was quite severe and the cabin was so open that snow and wind gained free access, and it frequently happens that the floor and bedding were deeply covered with snow. Wild game at this time was abundant, but soon disappeared owing to the rapid settlement of the county. Vermont then boasted of one store, and the future town of Astoria was then given over to the sturdy oak, under whose ample foliage the pioneer often rested from his labors. We cannot describe step-by-step progress of Mr. W. from poverty to affluence. He labored diligently and uprightly and owes all that he has to his own efforts. His children are Eliza J., Priscilla K., Margaret A., Sara C., George H., John B., David T. and Henry L. (History of Fulton County, C. C. Chapman, 1879, pages 464-465, Astoria Township section, submitted by Janine Crandell)
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