ISAAC CONLEE, called to public office by the vote of his fellow townsmen, is proving, by his capable and efficient service in the office of county clerk, that the trust reposed in him is well placed. His official service, however, was not unknown at the time of his election, for he had previously been county sheriff and his public record is above reproach.
Mr. Conlee was born in Morgan county, Illinois, January 1, 1857, and is a son of William and Nancy (Antle) Conlee, who were also natives of Morgan county. His paternal grandfather, Isaac Conlee, was born in Kentucky and in 1815 removed to the territory of Illinois, for this was three years prior to the admission of the state into the union. Locating in Madison county, he there remained for two years, after which he established his home in Morgan county and devoted his life to the work of the ministry, remaining there until he was called to his final rest. William Conlee, reared amid the wild scenes of frontier life, remained a resident of Morgan county until 1870, when he removed to Macoupin county, where he continued for some time. About 1880 he removed to Missouri, where he spent four years, and then returning to Illinois, settled in Greene county, at Roodhouse, where he has since lived. He is now practically retired from business cares.
Isaac Conlee, the eldest in a family of seven children, acquired his education in the public schools of Morgan and Macoupin counties and in Blackburn College. He was thus well equipped by mental training for life's practical duties and after putting aside his text-books he returned to the old homestead and began farming. Later he engaged in teaching for five years and then he again engaged in agricultural pursuits at Roodhouse. He next became connected with the express business as agent for the United States Express Company, and was acceptably serving in that capacity when elected sheriff, which office he held for four years, discharging his duties without fear or favor and aiding largely in maintaining law and order by bringing many offenders to justice. In 1902 he became the Democratic nominee for county clerk and was again elected, so that he is still on the roster of public officials.
On the 1st of July, 1879, Mr. Conlee was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Taylor, a native of this county and a daughter of M. Taylor, formerly a resident of this county, but now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Conlee have been born five children, namely: Florence, Charles, Hubert, Roy and Cecil.
Mr. Conlee is well known in fraternal circles and is a representative member of the Masonic order, having been made a Mason in August, 1899, and at present belonging to Carrollton lodge, No. 50, A. F. & A.M.; Carrollton chapter, No. 77, R.A.M.; and Hugh De Payens commandery, all of Carrollton. He is also connected with the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks at Alton, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and Roodhouse camp of Modern Woodmen of America. He is popular with his brethren of these organizations, having many social and business qualifications that recommend him to friendship and regard.