SANDERS, BEN, farmer, Sec. 14, P. O. Athensville; born in North Carolina, Sept. 30, 1803; came to Morgan Co. in this State 1827; and removed to Greene County 1831; married in Kentucky, June, 1826, to Elizabeth Strong, born Kentucky, April 1805 and died March 6, 1872. Mr. Sanders married May 20, 1876, Mattie Brinkley, born Dec. 30, 1833, and widow of the late Thomas Brinkley, of Greene Co.
SANDERS, NORTON, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Greenfield. Among the "young settlers" of this county there are none whose present prospects are more flattering and who have a better "start" in life, and with judicious management and opportunities well improved, can become one of the most opulent agriculturists in the county. Having about 1,000 acres of land the very best of improvements, and being a young man and in good health - all these aids present a phalanx of strength that will, if rightly utilized, make "circumstance" bend to his opportunities. Such as the conditions and surrounding of Norton Sanders, born in Jersey County, Setp. 5, 1849, son of Ben. Sanders, who is a native of Maryland, and came to this State at an early day, and by shrewd management and the exercise of business tact, accumulated property, has since retired and resides with his son at Kemper. Nov. 30, 1871, Norton was married to Joanna Landiss, daughter of Wm. Landiss, of this county. They have three children: George, Nyda, and Olla. Norton while in the prosecution of his farm duties is always ready to embark on a hunt, of which he is dear lover, and in the capacity has his chief enjoyment.
SAUER, AUG. JOS., Catholic clergyman of Carrollton; born 1848 in Germany, grandduchy of BAden, emigrated to New York City in his third years, educated at the Christian Brother Schools of that city, and subsequently returned to Germany, where, in the year 1871, he received holy orders, after finishing the academic course at the Royal Academy at Munster, Westphalia; sent to Carrollton by the Bishop of Alton, Sept., 1877.
SAWYER, JAMES A., livery, Jackson Street, Roodhouse, first street west of new Kirland Hotel. MR. S. was born in Steuben County, New York in 1845. In his fifteenth year he accompanied his parents to Illinois, locating in Madison County. During the Spring of 1870 Mr. Sawyer came to Roodhouse, where he first worked for John Roodhouse as a farm hand. Mr. R. was then the proprietor of the livery that Mr. Sawyer now owns. In 1873 the purchase was effected. Since this date Mr. Sawyer has bought largely, both of horses and the latest style of vehicles, which commercial travellers will do well to note. Special attention given to transient stock. Passengers conveyed to all parts of the county day or night. Mr. S. married Miss Laura STrate, of Roodhouse; children, Hattie, deceased, and Edna.
SCANDRETT, CHARLES S. Jr., farmer, Sec. 27, P. O. Rockbridge, was born in the City of Worcester, England, Aug. 1, 1827. He is the eldest of a family of nine children, born of Charles S. and Eliza S. Papps, who was born in 1804, and the former one year later. The family emigrated to this country in June, 1836, and first settled in Edwardsville, where Charles S., the elder, was engaged in the land office as clerk. In 1878 he moved with the family to Carrollton, where he was engaged as a clerk in the recorder's office, was also engaged in teaching for some time, he having a good education, which combined with his business tact, made him a very desirable, and some times almost an indispensable aid; his duties he always performed to the satisfaction of those interested and with credit to himself. In the year 1841, he moved about two miles northeast of Carrollton, remained one year, then moved three miles east, remaining two years, then five miles southeast of Carrollton, where he bought land and has since owned it. Since the death of his wife he has lived among his children, and is still at work at the desk, posting and keeping books for several firms in the county, making his home now mostly at his son Chas. S., Jr. The subject of this sketch remained under the parental roof until his twenty-second years, his educational advantages being quite limited indeed, graduated, as he says "in long division." The first year after he attained his majority rented a piece of land on his father's tract. Oct. 16, 1849.
SCHAFER, FREDRICK, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 23, P. O. Carrollton. The above named gentleman, who ranks among the more successful farmers of Greene County, is a native of Bavaria, Germany, born in 1823. At an early age he received a liberal education; at fourteen accompanying his parents across the broad waters of the Atlantic for the new world, landing in New Orleans; they took passage up the Mississippi to St. Louis, where they remained but a short time, when a permanent settlement was made in Calhoun County, where the subject of our notice passed his earlier years and grew to a vigorous manhood that paved the way for future success. At the early age of twenty-three, in 1846, Mr. Schafer was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Byrd, a native of Missouri, by whom he had three children: Roswell, Perry, and Jane. Mrs. Schafer died in 1855; during the Winter of the year mentioned Mr. S. united his fortunes to Miss Jane Byrd, by whom he has four children: Steven, Amos, Charles and Minnie. In 1872 occurred the death of Mr. Schafer's second wife, who found a last resting place in the beautiful cemetery of Carrollton. In 1876, Mr. S. again launched upon the sea of matrimony, the lady in question being Mrs. Egelhoff, of Jerseyville. From a small beginning, Mr. Schafer has worked his way rapidly forward to a proud position in life, a leading agriculturist in Greene, the owner of over 500 acres of valuable farming land in the counties of Greene and Calhoun; in the latter Mr. S. officiated in the capacity of sheriff two terms, for four years holding the position of county treasurer, and for a period of eight years justice of the peace.
SCHEPPE, JOHN, farmer, Sec. 24, P. O. Athensville, son of August Scheppe, who was born in Tennessee, March 22, 1801, and came to this State and settled in Morgan County, prior to the deep snow. John Scheppe was born in Morgan County Nov. 2, 1833; married May 12, 1860, to Mary Ann Fayette, of Sangamon Co., born July 6, 1838. This union has been blessed by six children, viz: William, born March 31, 1861; Hessing A., Jan. 4, 1863; Mary B., April 24, 1869; Samuel A., Jan. 21, 1871; Walter H., Feb. 5, 1872, and Isaac T., March 19, 1876. Mr. Scheppe, purchased the land where they now reside, in 1857. He has devoted his industries solely to farming. Homestead consists of sixty-five acres.
SCOGGINS, GEORGE W. deceased. Many of our southern counties are densely populated by that energetic race of people known as the Kentuckians. Greene, no ways backward in this respect, was once the abiding place of George W. Scoggins; he came to Greene County in his youth, and became a cotemporary with many who now bear a prominent part in county affairs; in 1849, he was married to Miss Margaret Daniels, by whom he had two children, of whom George was the younger. Mr. S. passed off the stage of action many years ago, and eighteen years ago witnessed the decease of his wife. Chilton, the only survivor of the family, was born Dec. 24, 1851, in Greene County, where he was principally been a resident from his earliest years; he is the owner of 40 acres of valuable land in this township.
SCOGGINS, J. H., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 18, P. O. Carrollton. Was born in Greene County, on the 15th of Nov. 1838; only son of C. J. Scoggins, who ranks among the early settlers Greene County, where he was born, and where he married Miss Mahala Brown, a daughter of John Brown; two children blessed this union: Elizabeth, who married John Short, died on the eighth of May 1859, and was laid at rest in the Hutchens Cemetery; John, from whom our narrative is obtained, grew to manhood in Greene County. In 1859, he was married to Miss Nancy E. Thomasson, a daughter of Spencer and Polly Thomasson; by whom he has eight children: Mary, who married Jacob Varble; Perry C., Hester E., John R., Alice M., Sarah E., Sophia E. and Joseph S. Mr. C., is the owner of 80 acres and a wide-awake progressive farmer.
SCOTT, BENJAMIN, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 9, P. O. Greenfield, was born 1813, in Virginia. His father, Welcome Scott, a native of Virginia, was married in Kentucky to Elizabeth Allen, who was a native of Kentucky, and deserves more than a passing notice, for her husband died when they had a family of four children, and Benjamin, the oldest, was but four years of age. She reared her family on a farm in Kentucky till Benjamin was eighteen years of age, then they emigrated to Illinois in 1830; came in a one-horse wagon, and when filled with their beds and wearing apparel, there was but room for one to ride. One of her daughters rode and the rest of them walked. They were twenty-one days on the road coming 500 miles. Benjamin rented land near Winchester, and farmed for two years, then entered 80 acres of land from the government, in Greene County, where he now lives, and has owned 2,600 acres of land at one time, but now owns 536 acres, and is one among the best stock farmers in Greene County; has four living springs on his farm. He was in the Black Hawk War of 1830-31, where he made part of his money to enter land with; was married Oct., 1834, to Lucinda Ruyle who was born 1818, in Illinois; have nine children: James (deceased), Elizabeth M., Edward, Sallie J. (deceased), Louisa F., Polly, William T. and Anna, all of whom are married.
SCOTT, FREDERICK, farmer, Sec. 28, P. O. Athensville, born in this township, May 10, 1845. Mr. S.'s parents were among the earliest settlers of this county, having come here from Tennessee prior to the deep snow. Married April 14, 1866, to Emma L., daughter of Henry and Emma Hastings, Greene Co. Three sons have blessed this union, two of whom are living, viz: Fred H., born Sept. 14, 1867, and Henry W., born Nov. 17, 1869. Farm comprises 80 acres beautifully located and well improved.
SCOTT, THOMAS, Jr. manufacturer of stoves and tinware and dealer in stamped and japanned ware, West Fifth St.. Thomas Scott was born in 1830, in the City of London, England. In his third year his parents moved to Liverpool, England, where at the age of 14 our subject was apprenticed to the trade of a tinsmith, at which he worked faithfully five years, when he sailed for America, landing at New Orleans. During the winter of 1849 he secured employment. The weather now becoming sultry, he proceeded west to Cincinnati, Ohio, thence to Louisville, Kentucky, and thence to St. Louis, where he worked at his trade for a short time, when he made his way to Carrollton, arriving in 1852. He first entered into the employ of his brother, with whom he afterward entered into a co-partnership business in the tinware trade, conducting a small trade at first. In 1861 he moved to Reach's Corner, where he remained until 1868, when he built the store in which he now does a prosperous business. In 1865 Mr. Scott obtained letters patent on a heating stove, which is acknowledged by all to be the best heating stove in the State and presents a handsome appearance. The stoves not only command a large sale in Illinois but are sold extensively in many Western States, notably Kansas and Missouri. Mr. Scott is not only an extensive dealer in stamped and japanned ware but also carries a full stock of very superior quality of graniteware, and makes a specialty of family goods for tin weddings. We know of no more reliable house than that of Thomas Scott, who transacts a large business today through strict attention to business and honorable dealing.
SCOTT, WILLIAM, proprietor Metropolitan Hotel, Roodhouse, Ill. The above named gentleman was born in Highland County, Ohio, in 1824. When three years of age his father died; at nine his mother moved to Shelby County, Indiana, remaining but five years, and at the expiration of which time returned to Ohio. William, who heads this sketch, was the youngest of this family. Mrs. Scott was a very industrious woman, who was left in moderate circumstances; on the death of her husband she struggled hard for herself and boy, who, when old enough, attended to the duties of the small farm. In his twenty-second year he was united in marriage to Miss Mahala Good, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Good, natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania. For some years after his marriage Mr. Scott followed farming. When the war broke out he entered the 100 day service, and was elected First Lieutenant of the company; honorably discharged at the expiration of ten days, as the company was organized as a relief corps for Cincinnati. Proceeding to Dennison, near Cincinnati, he became a sutler, from this point he came west and settled in Milton, Pike County, and became a stock buyer and grocer. In 1875 he came to Roodhouse, and renting the large establishment owned by Humphrey Armstrong opened the first class hotel above mentioned. Mr. S. has nine children: Sarah, Daniel, George, James H., L. D., Lorenzo, Charles F., William and Emma A.
SCRUBY, THOMAS, who began business as butcher in the city of Carrollton, some ten years ago, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, November 8, 1834. At the early age of 15 Thomas, possessed of an adventurous disposition, crossed the ocean for America, landing in New York City, where he remained a short time, subsequently proceeding to Sheboygan, Wis. Remaining here a short time, he went to Fond du Lac, where he first worked as a gardener; subsequently followed the calling of butcher, some six years; and during this time united his fortunes to Miss Elinor Pepper, by whom he has seven children: Charles E., Annie E., Minnie, Maggie, Harry, Archie, and Nellie. At Sparta, Wisconsin, Mr. S. transacted a successful business until his removal to Owatonna, Minnesota, thence to Springfield, Missouri and thence to Carrolton, Illinois, where his business qualifications and genial manners have won for him a liberal patronage. See business card elsewhere.
SECOR, E. J. farmer and stock raiser, Carrollton, is a son of Joshua and Tryphenia Secor, whose maiden name was Raynor, a native of Morristown, N. J. Joshua, the father of E. J. is a near descendent of a family who were compelled to leave their native country on account of religious persecution and coming here, settled in the wilderness of New York, and named the place New Rochelle, in memory of the place they had been driven, and around which clustered memories not soon to be forgotten. Joshua was born in Westchester County, N. Y., in 1782, learned the trade of a cabinet maker, was a fine mechanic and an inventive genius; afterwards constructed in Illinois the first saw mill ever run in the State by wind as the propelling power. Was married in 1810; at that time he belonged to a "Union" that encouraged a "strike", and to become isolated from it, he not being in sympathy with it, went to Charlestown, S. C., and remained one Winter; returning, he went to Greene County, Pa., where he lived eighteen years, and in May 1835, having a desire to try his fortunes in the West, emigrated to this county, and settled in town 10, range 11, section 24. Log cabins were like "angel's visits", few and far between; they camped at first, their covered wagon in which they came being their place of abode until circumstances afforded them better. First bought 240 acres in the prairies and 80 in the timber; the people ridiculed his idea of buying prairie land, they at that time deeming only the timber land of any value, but the sequel proved the wisdom of his selection. His father lived until he attained his 92d year. E. J. remained with his parents until his 22d year, then returned East to attend to some business pertaining to the estate; staid one Winter; made a second trip in 1841, and while there married his wife, Elizabeth A. Lockwood, of Belmont, Ohio, daughter of Judge L., a prominent jurist of that locality; she was born July 1818. Upon their arrival West he bought the land he now owns, and has since lived there, and is about the only one in the township, with one exception, who is now living on the land purchased at this time. July 17, 1870, Mr. Secor's house was burned to the ground, a large portion of the contents were consumed - fire accidental. The family then moved in a house built for a tenant, and the 17th of July the same year, it was struck by lightening, killing his son Edward instantly; the entire contents were burned this time, leaving the family houseless in a drenching rain in their night clothes. Mr. and Mrs. Secor have now five children: Rebecca, now the wife of Geo. Robiinson, now of Kansas; Eliza, now the wife of Presdient Davis of McLeansboro College, this State; Luther, now practicing law in St. Louis; Ben. L. and Arthur at home. Mr. and Mrs. S. are both members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; his is of Republican faith, but is not much interested in politics.
SEELEY, A. STEWART, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 30, P. O. White Hall, one of the most prominent farmers of Greene County, whose generous nature makes him universally respected, was born at St. Louis, Missouri, December 27, 1812. He was left an orphan at the early age of eleven years, and thus early thrown on his own resources, he made his way to Illinois, locating in Greene County in 1823, near his present magnificent property. For a boy he developed an energy of character that accounts for his success in life. He first hired out as a farm hand. In his twenty-first year he was married to Miss Laney Hodges, a daughter of Samuel Hodges. About this time Mr. Seeley had for capital a wife, energy and perseverance. But in a short time he was enabled to purchase eighty acres of land. To break the stubborn soil he first used a Bull plow, subsequently a Carey, Borshire and Diamond. The young man worked hard, living in a simple way, his home being a rough cabin, where venison frequently graced the table. Often he would go miles to a horse mill to procure a little meal to supply the family larder. Mrs. Seeley related that prairie chicken were so numerous that they were a burden. At this date, to use the language of Judge Seeley, Carrollton was but a hamlet, where some half dozen stores and dwellings went to make up the place, and here the early settler was wont to lay in his provisions. As years went by the orphan boy of former years began to accumulate property, and soon took a leading position as a farmer. He today owns over 2,000 acres of land, in township 12, range 12, township 12, range 13 and township 11, range 13. The success of the pioneer boy was something wonderful. For fourteen years Mr. Seeley was county commissioner,and for a number of years justice of the peace. Of ten children born of this marriage, what is somewhat remarkable, all are living: Rufus G., Louisa, John, William, Ann, George, Frank, Americus, Anthony, Emma and Ada.
SEELEY, RUFUS G., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 21, P. O. White Hall. R. G. Seeley was born on the homestead of his parents, A. Stewart Seeley and Laney, in 1836. His preliminary education was received in the log cabin of by-gone days, where the seats were constructed of slabs, the writing desks of the same material. The first teacher of Mr. Seeley was Col. Richard Johnson, who was liberally educated for the period of time in which he lived. On leaving the school room young Seeley's time was fully occupied on the farm. In his twenty-second year he was united in marriage to Miss Lousia Bigham. His first purchase of land consisted of ninety-five acres. Adding to this yearly he now owns 240. Mr. Seeley has three children: Nora Jane, Maud and Eda B.
SEELY, AMERICUS, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. White Hall. The subject of this biography is the fifth child of Hon. Judge Stewart Seely, and was born on the farm homestead in Greene County, the 9th of November, 1849. March 15, 1877, he was united in marriage, at Warrensburg, Johnson County, Mo., to Miss Dora Shackleford, a daughter of Benjamin F. Shackleford of Kentucky and Mary Frances Shackleford of Tennessee. One child, Claude E., blessed this union, born on the 4th of February, 1878. Mr. Seely is the owner of 160 acres of valuable land, and is an honorable man and a progressive, wide-awake farmer.
SHAW, J. C. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 11, P. O. White Hall. Mr. Shaw was born in the extreme north of Ireland on the 9th day of November, 1802. At the early age of ten, he was apprenticed to the trade of a millwright; serving seven years, he became exceedingly skillful in this vocation. Crossing the Atlantic in 1832, he landed in the city of Baltimore, remaining eight months, he went to Wheeling, West Virginia, where he was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca Barkus. In 1834, he made his way to the southern portion of Illinois, locating at Montezuma, Scott Co. and thence to Manchester, where he erected may of the buildings, entering into the construction of the town. At this time the circumstances of Mr. Shaw were exceeding limited, although he earned good wages. Like nearly all of his race, his generosity was unbounded. By the advice of his devoted wife he proceeded to Edwardsville, then a small place, where he entered land from the Government, and now began the quiet life of a farmer. A resident of this county forty years, he witnessed many changes, and has become a well-to-do farmer, owning 160 acres. Mrs. Shaw departed this life five years ago. There are ten children: John, Mary, Elizabeth, Thomas, Henry, James, Daniel, William, Benjamin and George.
SHAW, JAMES farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 10, P. O. Manchester, Scott Co., Ill. James Shaw is a native of Greene County, born March 5, 1844, the fifth child of James and Rebecca Shaw; a farmer from boyhood, Mr. Shaw still follows the occupation that he has been accustomed to from this earliest years. In 1862, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Stubblefield, a daughter of Easely Stubblefield, one of the first settlers of Greene County. Of four children born of this marriage, three are living: Ida May, Laura and Nora. Mr. Shaw is the owner of 80 acres of valuable land.
SHAW, JOHN farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 4, P. O. Roodhouse. The above named gentleman is a native of Virginia, born in 1833, oldest son of J. C. and Rebecca Shaw. He was but two years of age when his parents emigrated to Illinois, locating first in Scott County, and two years later in Greene on the farm property now owned by J. C. Shaw. John, on attaining his majority, rented a farm of Wm. Andrews, for six years, afterwards renting of E. M. Husted. During the flush war times he procured his first start in life, having purchased a tract of 100 acres in 1868, he moved on to it, in after years becoming successful through great industry; his present farm comprises 200 acres, on which he has lately erected a handsome farm residence. His wife was Sarah E. Allman, a daughter of Nelson Allman, a native of North Carolina.
SHAW, W. A., renter, Sec. 34, P. O. Athensville, born Pike County, Aug. 19, 1832; settled in Greene County 1850. Married Oct. 18, 1851 to Eliza, daughter of John and Louisa Betley, born Oct. 18, 1830. This union has been blessed by three chidren, viz: Thomas G., born Nov. 11, 1852; Walter C., born Oct. 4, 1854, and Henry J., born Feb. 1, 1857. Mr. Shaw's occupatin has always been farming; rents 110 acres.
SHIELD, FRANCIS W., foreman car repairs, C. & A. R. W., Roodhouse. Mr. Shield was born in Scotland, April 29, 1829; his father was by trade a carpenter and joiner; with him young Shield was early instructed in the rudiments of carpenter work. On attaining his majority he emigrated to America; working his way to Chicago, where he completed his trade, working five years; he then went to Dubuque, Iowa, making the trip in a covered wagon; he there worked as a foreman and erected many dwelling houses; a resident three years of Dubuque, he there married Miss Margaret Miller, a daughter of Michael Miller, of Glasgow, Scotland, by whom he had eleven children, seven of whom are living: Phillis, Frank, Jessie, Marshall, Uphemia, Agnes and Maud. During the war Mr. Shield served as foreman on the Sea Branch, Roanoke, Norfolk & Petersburg R.R., engaged in the transportation of troops. Before the close of the war he came North, entering the employ of C.& A. Co., where he had worked previously, and at this writing has been a railroad man, so to speak, thirty years, and in the above capacity is regarded a superior workman. Seven years ago Mr. S. came to Roodhouse, where he invested in land, and now resides, living in very comfortable circumstances.
SHINNAULT, Jacob, farmer, Sec. 27, P. O. Breese. Was born in this county July 14, 1845. His father and mother were born in Tennessee, and came to this county about fifty years ago. He was married June 10, 1868, to Mary Martin, daughter of Charles and Nancy Martin. She was born in this county May 10, 1848. They have five children: Lucy, born Oct. 12, 1868; William I., born March 15, 1871; Sarah E., born Dec. 19, 1872; Mattie B., born Dec. 9, 1877; Mary E., born July 25, 1875. He has 40 acres of land, on which he has lived seven years.
SHORT, J. A. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 12, P. O. Fayette. Had the reader of this sketch been on the road leading from Summerton, Tenn., to Carrollton, Ill., in the Fall of 1829, he might have seen a rudely made wagon in which were densely packed a few household goods, and a goodly number of children. The remaining ones who were larger, were wending their way on foot following up an old dun cow who was also a member of the party. As this procession files past, a close observer might have seen peeping out from beneath the curtains a countenance that would today be recognized as Alex. Short. Such it was, and was then in company with his parents who were emigrating to this country, and located at Woodman's Mound, where they remained about five years; then moved to township 11, R. 10, north of Greenfield, where his father spent the remainder of his days except three years, which he spent in Greenfield. He died Aug. 1876. The subject of this sketch had but meager advantages for schooling, his father being poor at the time, and having a large family to support, a large share of this responsibility fell up on J. A., and he was compelled to remain at home and assist in the home duties. At the age of twenty however, his father had now become in a manner forehanded, and J. A., embarked for himself. Began by renting land of his father, which he worked for three years; then bought 80 acres in Town 11, Sec. 12, and afterward added to it 80 more with a land warrant which he obtained by trading a horse; afterward entered another 40 under the "bit" act; he kept his land seven years and sold the 160 acres for $1,500; then moved east about two miles and bought 120 acres; staid six years, and having an opportunity to better himself, sold out at an advance and then moved to Gilbert Edward's farm, one and three-quarter miles north of Greenfield, where he bought 200 acres, costing $4,000; kept the farm three years, and disposed of it for $8,000; while on this farm cleared $5,000, including $1,000 made on a crop of wheat one year. After selling out, went to northeast part of Christian County; where he bought 280 acres for $6,500; remained three years; then rented out his farm for $800 per year, and moved to Greenfield; subsequently to this he traded his farm in Christian Co., for the one he now owns, paying $2,250 in addition; has now 275 acres of excellent land, highly improved, has built him an excellent house recently, and his building and everything about him indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner; he being as near a model farmer as the country produces. Been a man of energy and industrious habits, and a believer in the motto that "God helps those that help themselves." Mr. Short has been a member of the Baptist church for many years; is also a zealous member of the Masonic order. Greenfield Lodge No. 129, A.F.& A.M. Mr. Short was first married Dec. 25, 1846 to Charity Cheany; had eight children, four now living: Emily Jane, born Nov. 11, 1847; John W., born June 13, 1855; George M., April 17, 1858; Martha L., April 13, 1861. He wife died Oct. 9, 1869. The following year married Tabitha Starks; she died Jan. 27, 1873, leaving one child: Virgil Alex., born Dec. 31, 1871. Was last married to Miss M. J. Barton, daughter of Isaac and Charity Barton, of Greenfield; born Sept. 10, 1837. They have two children: Wm. Leslie, born 31 Aug, 1874.
(Note from Mary Ann - Last sentence mentions two children, but only one is named)
SHORT, J. M., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 18, P. O. Wrightsville, is the son of Thomas and Catherine Short; was born Oct. 12, 1839, and married Oct. 6, 1864, to Ann M. Furgerson, the daughter of James and Elizabeth Furgerson; was born Oct. 11, 1841; have seven children living: George L., Delia, Dora, Charley J. (deceased), Francis M., Maggie, Lewis H. Mr. Short has lived in Greene County all his life, except nine years, which he spent in Christian County; has farmed all his life, and now owns 200 acres of land.
SHORT, JAMES, agriculturist, was a native of Kentucky, where he was born in 1809. But little pertaining to his early life can now be gleaned. Raised upon a farm, where he toiled early and late, his life the every day routine of the farm, he obtained but a limited education, such as the common schools of the day afforded. He married in 1830, Miss Eliza Self, and one year later, during the Autumn, he made his way to Greene County, and settled on the property now known as the Steve Taylor Place. Financially, none were in a worse predicament than he, but he had an unlimited stock of energy to draw from, and it was not long before his prospects began to brighten, and the purchase of farm property feasible. The following Spring from the date of his arrival, Mrs. Short sickened and died, leaving to his care one child, Eliza Jane. His second wife was Miss Millie Stone, a daughter of Thomas Stone; by whom he had five children: John, Wiliam, Henry, Ann and George. In 1844, occurred the death of his second wife, and during the Winter of this year, Mr. Short was married to Mrs. Cynthia Rice, relict of Wm. R. Rice, and a daughter of Haman and Sarah Wood. Of this marriage five children were born: Benj. F., Perry, Joseph, Mary and Jasper. After a life of almost unexampled and very unusual activity, Mr. Short died suddenly at his home, July 8, 1871. He had become an opulent farmer, had added largely year by year to his possessions, and owned at the time of his death, some 400 acres of valuable land.
SHORT, JAMES H. circuit clerk, is a native of Greene County; born in 1839; the fifth of a family of eleven children. His early years were spent in agricultural pursuits; he received a liberal education in the common schools of his native place. In 1863, he united his fortunes to Miss Lenora Ferguson; a daughter of G. B. and Mary Feguson, whose maiden name was Mabery, who were among the early settlers of Greene County. Mr. Short became a successful farmer, owning 157 acres in township 9, range 12. Two years ago he moved to Carrollton, where he purchased town property, and at the November election of 1876, he was elected circuit clerk, retaining the position at the present writing. Note: Mr. Short received the election above given, prior to his removal to Carrollton.
SIEVERLING, H. C. wagon and buggy manufacturer, Carrollton, Ill. For over twenty years Mr. Sieverling has transacted a successful business in the above line, and machinery, and her very superior workmanship is recognized, and bring him a large patronage. Mr. S. was born in Brunswick, Germany, in 1828. At thirteen he became apprenticed to the trade of a blacksmith and machinist, serving four and a half years. He was recognized even at this youthful age a first-class workman. He was then in his eighteenth year. Three years later he emigrated to America, locating in New Orleans; where he entered the employ of the Ponchartrian R. R. Co. Returning to New Orleans in 1851, he became a superintendent for the construction of canal locks. In 1853, he was attacked with yellow fever, and on recovering resumed work on the locks. These brought to completeness he proceeded to Baton Rouge, La., where he was united in marriage to Mrs. Ellinor Helmbold, by whom he had four children: three are living. Mrs. S. had two children by first marriage. In 1858, Mr. Sieverling, after a short residence in St. Louis, Mo., and Keokuk, Iowa, came to Woodville, Greene Co., Ill., where he transacted a large business for eight years. In 1866, he came to Carrollton, where he purchased the property owned by J. C. Kelly, including residence and wagon shop. Mr. S. is well and favorably known to our business men, and the farming community, who know him for his honesty and very superior workmanship.
SIMMONS, W. L. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 17, P. O. Roodhouse. Mr. Simmons ranks among our most industrious farmers. Invariablly busy, he has made the farm pay. He was born in Randolph County, Ill. in 1849; oldest son of J. C. and Mary Ann Simmons, who were born in Illinois. Mr. Simmons was raised in the counties of Randolph, Monroe, and Sinclair. For the past eighteen years he has been a resident of Greene County, following the occupation of farming, owning 100 acres brought to a high state of cultivation, through the remarkable energy displayed by him. In 1874, he was married to Miss Maggie, a daughter of James Buckey, a prominent farmer of this township, whose sketch will be found elsewhere. One child born of this marriage, James Edwin, on the 12th day of Dec. 1875.
SIMPSON, ALFRED, farmer, Sec. 16, P. O. Athensville, born in Sangamon Co., Ill., March 1, 1850, and has lived in Greene County since six years of age. His grandfather was one of the earliest settlers of the State and came from Vermont. Alfred is the third child of a family of eight; was married Feb. 13, 1873, to Lydia J., daughter of Zac and Matilda Bean, born Greene Co., April 7, 1854. This union has been blessed by one child, Mary M., born Oct. 27, 1874. Mr. Simpson has devoted his industries solely in agricultural pursuits; homestead consists of 116 acres.
SHARON BROTHERS, dealers in dry goods, groceries, boots, shoes, hats, caps, etc.,etc. The above named enterprising firm became established in their present business as early as 1857, with the exception of the younger brother. As this is one among the older establishments in the city of Carrollton, we here append more than a passing notice. Nearly half a century ago, Wm. Pegram solicited the trade of the few inhabitants then in Greene Co., he being superseded by David Pierson, the well known banker, who conducted a successful business many years, when Dr. J. K. Sharon, deceased, and William Sharon, now senator from Nevada, and the well known California millionaire, entered into a co-partnership business, when Wm. Sharon retired, he was succeeded by Thomas L. Hudson. The present members of the firm are now, J. K., J. J. & C. C. Sharon, who have transacted a successful business for the past ten years.
SLONE, ASA, county farm, Sec. 7, P. O. Carrollton. Prominent among the representatives of this county who hail from the State of North Carolina is Mr. Slone, who was born in Chatham County, N. C., Oct. 17, 1825. His father's name was Matthew, and his mother's name was Chloe Hews, both of them natives of same State. In the Fall of 1833 the family emigrated in this State in a wagon, locating at Carrollton, remained about eight years, then removed to Macoupin County, where they remained until the death of the head of the family, which occurred in 1845. The subject of this sketch assisted in maintaining the family after the death of his father, and was thus deprived of all educational advantages. At an early age worked out on a farm until nearly grown, when he went to learn the blacksmith's trade at which he continued up to the time of the outbreak of the Mexican war, when he enlisted in Co. "C" lst Regiment, commanded by John Hardin, remained out two years, then returned to Carrollton, and resumed his trade, hiring out to his former employer, staid with him seven years; then set up in same business by himself in Carrollton, continuing at same for eighteen years. July 6, 1848, was married to Ann M. Caldwell, born Sept. 3, 1830. In 1865 he abandoned the anvil and forge, and engaged in farming; first made a commencement on Macoupin Creek, bought him 300 acres of land, farmed about three years, then sold out and rented land until March 1873, when he moved to the county farm which he has since run with credit to himself and the satisfaction of all concerned. Mr. Slone has six children: Margaret, born May 20, 1849; William, born July 10, 1852; Samuel T., born April 17, 1857; Robert A., born Feb. 11, 1860; John C., Nov. 27, 1863; Mary C., April 5, 1856 (1866?); Maud A., Nov. 7, 1869.
SMITH, MOORE & CO. dealers in boots and shoes, ne cor. Square, Carrollton, Ill. Of Messrs. Smith, Moore & Co., who control one of the largest establishment of its kind in the West, we mention, with more than ordinary notice: In 1872, Samuel O. Smith and Harry S. Moore opened up shop, so to speak, in their present quarters, at first in an humble way, compared to their present extensive business. On entering this large establishment, one beholds an array of fine boots and shoes, that for quality, durability and style to suit the most fastidious, are unequaled in the West, or indeed, anywhere else. Three superior workmen are kept in constant employ making boots and shoe, from strictly French stock, which are sold at surprisingly low rates, considering the material of which they are composed. In addition to their boot and shoe department the firm are prepared to meet all demands of trade in their furnishing department, and parties contemplating purchasing will do well to remember that all's not gold that glitters, and instead of a trip to St. Louis in the purchase of goods, one and all will find that they can do equally as well at home.
SMITH, BENJAMIN, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 12, P. O. White Hall. The subject of this sketch deserves more than a passing notice, as he is one among the oldest settlers of Greene County; was born Sept. 25, 1799, in Connecticut; came to Alton, Ill., in 1818, when there was but two families in that place; is a carpenter by trade, and built the first house in that village; started from Connecticut in 1816, came to New York State and lived for one season, then to Fort George, Canada, where he stopped for some time, then a party of them came down the Ohio, on a flat boat, to New Albany, there left their boat and walked across the country to Alton. Was married to Miss M. E. Beacon, in 1820, who was born March 17, 1799, in Massachusetts; have nine children, six of whom are dead: Carrie A., born March 20, 1823; Minerva, born Dec. 1824; Harvey A., June 10, 1830; Theresa O., born Nov. 1, 1832; Angeline M, born April 9, 1835; Ira, born Nov. 26, 1838; entered land from the government in 1825, and owns 480 acres.
SMITH, C. S. dry goods merchant, Kane, Ill. The above named gentleman was born in Greene in 1846; oldest son of Dr. A. H. Smith, the well known physician and druggist of Carrollton; he passed his early years in Carrollton, where he received a liberal education; for a short time he became employed as a clerk; during the Autumn of 1870, locating at New Kane, where he entered into a co-partnership business with John Greene. Both members were men of enterprise and sagacity, and their business soon became a large and growing one; the new firm sold goods for a period of two years in a large brick building owned by A. Felter; owing to increasing business, and desiring a better location, they decided to erect their present building, by far the best store house in the town, where a business is transacted that will compare favorably with any similar establishment in Kane. In September 1875, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Hobson, a daughter of Robert Hobson. One child born of this, Florence.
SMITH, HARVEY A., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 2, P. O. White Hall, is the son of Benjamin Smith, one of the oldest settlers of Greene County. The subject of this sketch was born in 1830, in Greene County; was married to Eliza Kistler, who was born in 1831, in Madison County; have nine children: Addie M., born Jan. 12, 1853; William H., born Sept. 21, 1854; Anna B., born Oct. 1, 1856; Benjamin E., born Dec. 25, 1858; Carrie H., born March 16, 1860; Selinda V., born Dec. 14, 1862; Zella V., born April 24, 1867; Frank C., born Dec. 1, 1868; Lela born April 16, 1876, deceased. Mr. Smith has followed the occupation of farmer a most of his life. He furnished 40,000 ties and posts for the C. B. & Q. R. R. Co.
SMITH, DAVID, deceased, once a prosperous farmer of Greene County, was born in North Carolina, where he grew to manhood. Recieved a common school education. He early learned to rely upon himself, and on coming westward he first settled at Cape Girardeau, Missouri. The journey west was made in a covered wagon, which slowly wound its way over the tall prairie grass; on crossing small streams, it became necessary to transfer the household goods to boats, which on crossing were again place in the wagon and travel resumed. For a period of fifteen years or more Mr. Smith remained a resident of Missouri, locating in Greene County in 1838. Purchasing 160 acres near White Hall and Wilmington, he settled down to farm life in Greene County. While here his wife died. His second wife was Mrs. Newton, by whom he had four children. This lady departed this life in 1866. In 1871 he married Mrs. Serena Manuel, a daughter of Cumberland James and relict of Thompson Manuel, who died many years ago. Mr. Smith died in 1875. He was a man of extraordinary energy, and this added to great steadiness of purpose made his life a success.
SMITH, ERVIN B. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 8, P. O. Greenfield, was born in 1853 in Greene County. His father, W. W.Smith, was born in 1825, in Indiana, and came to Greene County in 1832, and died Nov. 30, 1877; owned 240 acres of land at his death; was married twice; first, in 1852, to Mary A. Short, who was born in 1830; had four children by this marriage: Ervin, Henry, Elizabeth and Amanda; married the second time to Lettence Whitlock, who was born in 1838.
SMITH, J. P. farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 1, P. O. Greenfield, was born in Greene County, August 29, 1834; was married in 1853 to Martha A. Smith, who was born February 8, 1834; is the daughter of James and Peninah H. Smith; have five children, four living: Virginia A., James E., Caroline E., Robert L. and Albert E., deceased. Mr. Smith own 211 acres of land, all fenced, which he has made by is own exertions. His father, Daniel Smith, was married to Lucy A. Pace, and they emigrated to Greene County in 1834, and entered land from the government, to the amount of 160 acres.
SMITH, JACOB, farmer, Sec. 5, P. O. Rockbridge. Jacob Smith is a native of Greene County, born in 1828; tracing back this family we find that the grandfather of our subject Nicholas Cris, who was a native of France; like all of his race, of an adventurous disposition, he made his way to America, and settled in Greene County, as early as 1823; when the war came on he enlisted in Co. A, 61st Ill. Inf., and proceeding to the front, became a participant in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, Mission Ridge, Vicksburg, Pea Ridge, etc. etc.; at Shiloh he received a severe wound that caused the loss of one eye. Since the war he has lived in Jersey County and Greene County, where at one time in his agricultural career he became exceedingly prosperous.. In 1856 he was married to Miss Phoebe Fleming, a daughter of John and Hannah Fleming; thirteen children blessed their union, one only surviving: Hannah, who resides at Jerseyville. Mrs. Smith died Feb. 21, 1871, was laid at rest in the Jerseyville Cemetery.
SMITH, STEPHEN, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 6, P. O. Geenefield, was born May 22, 1809 in Vermont. His father, John M. Smith, was born in 1781 in Virginia, and was married to Rachel Packwood, who was born in 1781. They emigrated to Kentucky in 1810 and remained there till 1840, then emigrated to Greene County, Ill. He died in 1858, in Greene County and his wife died in 1836 in Kentucky. The subject of this sketch was twenty eight years of age when he came to Greene County; was married in Kentucky, Sept. 13, 1836, to Sallie M. Pace, who was born Feb. 22, 1816; have none children: Thomas A., born Dec. 8, 1837, Greensville Z. born Aug. 31, 1839, died April 7, 1866; Nacy, born Feb. 26, 1842; Edward, born July 11, 1844; James T., born July 30, 1847; William, born March 28, 1850; John C., born Feb. 24, 1853; George W. born Nov. 13, 1855; Martha B., born July 10, 1860. Mr. Smith came to Illinois with a borrowed team and wagon, and all he brought with him was his bed clothes and wearing apparel and cooking utensils, and with money enough to buy 106 acres of the unbroken soil of Greene County, and now owns 175 acres.
SPEAR, William L., teacher, Sec. 33, P. O. Rockbridge. Among the successful teachers of this county, is the party whose name heads this sketch. Was born in Randolph County, Ill., Sept. 27, 1843; son of Lewis P. and Loureine Spear, whose maiden name was Stowe. The former is a native of Ashland County, Ohio, and the latter from Alabama. When quite young Wm. L., moved with his parents to Alton, where he remained until 1857, when they moved to Town 9, Range 11. Aug. 3, 1862, enlisted in the 122 Regt. Ills. Vols. Co. C.; remained with them until the close of the war, was in the battles of Parkers Cross Road, Paducah, Nashville, Siege of Mobile; received an honorable discharge Aug. 3, 1865; upon his return, went to Macoupin Co., where he was engaged in teaching a short time. In 1867, came to this county, and has since continued teaching. April 7, 1870, was united in matrimony to Fannie Dews; born Aug. 11, 1844; by this union they have had three children: Harry L., born Feb. 10, 1872; Loureine C., born Oct. 19, 1874; William F., born Nov. 5, 1876. Has twice been elected justice of the peace. Was commissioned as notary public, Jan. 25, 1874; has since been re-appointed and now fills said office. Is a zealous worker in the Red Ribbon movement. Has studied law, and expect to be admitted to the bar soon. Is a member of Golden Rule Lodge, No. 1017; also Fayette Lodge, No. 107, A. F. & A. M. Republican in sentiment.
STEELE, JOSEPH, proprietor Headrick House, Carrollton. The subject of this sketch was born in Balman Co., Ohio, on the 11th of Decembe, 1821. When he was four years old his parents, Joseph and Nancy Steele, moved to Muskingum Co., Ohio, where our subject grew to manhood, and where he was united in marriage to Miss Ann Puff, of Ohio, a daughter of Henry and Sophia Puff, of Maryland, Alleghany Co., by whom he has four children, William R., Jacob H., Reasoner, and Sophia D. Mr. Steele followed farming until his location in Greene County in 1852, and first followed farming in Tw. 10, R.12. Two years ago Mr. Steele came to Carrollton where he has established for the past two years a first-class boarding house, where permanent or transient boarders will find a satisfactory table and neat, clean, comfortable beds, opposite the Methodist Church, southeast of the Square; also stable accommodations and feed for horses.
STEVENS, CLARKE, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 9, P. O. Carrollton. It was a full half century ago that Clarke Stevens made his advent in this portion of Illinois, then at the age of six years; his father was John Stevens, a Virginian by birth, who removed to Kentucky in an early day, and there married Miss Elizabeth Terry, who was born in Virginia; lived in the States of Ohio and Tennessee and subsequently removed to Missouri, where he followed farming until his removal to Illinois, in 1828, near Otterville, in what is now comprised in that portion set apart and known as Jersey County; for the most part the Illinois prairie was unbroken, and for many years the family roughed it among those hardy men who ventured to Illinois, when to be a settler was to realize untold hardships; amid pioneer surroundings young Stevens passed his boyhood, and grew to a vigorous manhood, attaining the same energy that characterized the people among whom he moved; in 1841, he was united in marriage to Miss Mildred Ann Cooper, a daughter of E. S. Cooper; by this marriage they had thirteen children - nine of whom are living. Mrs. Stevens died on the 24th of January 1877, and the November following Mr. Stevens was married to Mrs. Elizabeth Buck, a daughter of Jacob Alabaugh, and relict of Wm. Buck, of Virginia. After many years Mr. Stevens has become the owner of a valuable tract of land in > this township.
STOCKWELL, DANIEL, farmer, Sec. 22, P. O. Athensville, born in Tennessee, Aug. 11, 1840; came to this State when an infant, with his parents, who settled in Macoupin County. Married June 28, 1867, to Esther Wright, daughter of Thos. and Nancy Wright, born in Morgan Co. in 1843. This union has been blessed by five children, viz: Esther S., born June 20, 1868; Lucy J., May 12, 1869; John T., April 3, 1871; Frederick, Oct. 7, 1872, and Nancy C., March 6, 1875. Mr. Stockwell has devoted his industries solely to agricultural pursuits; farms consists of 60 acres.
STOCKWELL, R. M., farmer, Sec. 29, P. O. Athensville, born in Tennessee, Sept. 26, 1841, and was brought to this State when only three years of age; has resided in Macoupin Co. until four years ago, when he purchased his present homestead. Married Nov. 9, 1864, to Mary Ann, daughter of Thomas and Emily Spring, Macoupin Co., born March 26, 1843. This union has been blessed by three children, viz: Wm. R., born Sept. 29, 1867; Lemuel M., Oct. 21, 1868; and Emma A., born Dec. 2, 1871. Mr. Stockwell has devoted his industries solely to agricultural pursuits; homestead consists of 80 acres.
STRONG, S. L., dealer in dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes, etc., Roodhouse. The subject of this sketch was born in Greene County, Ohio, in 1848; his father, C. A. Strong, a native of Greene County, Ohio, there married Miss Elizabeth Bruck, a daughter of Juen and Elizabeth. C. A. Strong was a successful farmer, who died in Ohio in 1869; his wife died some years previous. By the death of his mother young Strong was left to battle with the world; he thus early learned to rely upon his own resources. At nineteen he became the proprietor of a grocery store, in which he became moderately successful; in 1874 he moved from Ohio to Illinois, and first located in Milton, Greene County, where he became firmly established in a general merchandise store, in which he met with great success and accordingly established a branch store at Roodhouse. Owing to the rapid growth of this town the branch store has long since overtopped the one at Milton, making rapid strides to public favor, through the well known courtesy and liberality of is proprietor. Good goods at low prices distinguish this establishment. Mr. Strong married, in 1860, Miss Clara B. Adams, a daughter of Reuben and Matilda Adams, of Green County, Ohio; three children were born of this marriage: Maud M., Claudie B. and Sylvester L.
SULLIVAN, W.A., deceased, was born in the State of Indiana, Jefferson Co., May 30, 1833; in his fifth year his parents settled near Carrollton, Greene County; here he shared the hardships of pioneer life. In his twenty-fifth years, March 1858, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Heaton, a daughter of Samuel Heaton, who became well known as a surveyor during the early history of Greene County. Mr. Sullivan was a gentleman of liberal education, teaching school for a number of years in Greene County; while yet in the prime of life he was stricken down, and now quietly rests amid the scenes of his labors; to the care of his wife he left two children: Orrie, who married John Martin, and William who resides on the homestead. Mrs. Sullivan is a native of Greene County, born in 1837; a lady of liberal education and the owner of 60 acres of land in Tp. 12, R. 11