BROWN, Thomas H.
Past and Present of the City of Rockford and Winnebago Co., IL, C. A. Church.   Chicago:  Clarke Publishing Company, 1905, p 361

Thomas H. BROWN, living retired in Rockford [Winnebago County, IL], but for many years an active and enterprising agriculturalist of Winnebago Township, was born near Benson, Rutland County, VT, 08 Feb 1835.  His parents were Arthur and Jane (DOUGAND) BROWN.   Their family consists of seven children, only three of whom are now living:   William, residing in VT; Thomas H.; and Hamilton W., who lives in Denver, CO.

Thomas H. BROWN spent the first nine years of his life in VT, and then came to IL with Martin ROOT and his family, with whom he remained until 21 years of age.  He acquired his education in the common schools of DuPage County, IL, and on attaining his majority bean farming on his own account.  Two years later he removed to Winnebago County, where he lived continuously since.

About 1875 he became the owner of a tract of land of 196 acres, and has since had valuable landed holdings in the county.  He now owns 245 acres of fine land in Winnebago Township, and his farm is well improved with good equipment and all modern accessories.   He removed to Rockford in 1861, and since that time has resided continuously at his present home at No. 114 Rocton Avenue.

Mr. BROWN was married in 1871 to Miss Caroline E. HOLCOMB, who was born in OH in 1845, and is a daughter of Talcott and jeanette HOLCOMB.  Of their two children, the elder, Hermon H., died in 1888, at the age of 14.  The younger, Pembroke H., was educated in the high school of Rockford, and also received liberal instruction in music.  He is now living with his parents in the city.  Mr. and Mrs. BROWN attend the Christian Union church.  In politics Mr. BROWN is a republican, but has never sought or desired office.  Although he has led a quiet life, it contains lessons that might well be followed, for he has always been reliable in his dealings with his fellowmen, and faithful to the duties of citizenship that have devolved upon him.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly.