Transcribed by Larry Fearneyhough
Page 115
Of sturdy English stock, good, honest parentage, William Barry was born in Snainton, Yorkshire, England, July 29, 1837. He was the second son of Joseph and Mary Barry, and was one of six children. He lived at home and attended school until he was sixteen years old. His elder brother, John had some to America and settled near Lynnville, Morgan county, Illinois. The subject of our sketch came to visit his brother, May 1, 1856, and remained here. He secured employment and worked on a farm for fifteen months, and on June 21, 1858, he was married to Miss Harriet Thompson. Eight children, five girls and three boys, have been born to them. All are now living. After his marriage he was employed by C. Coats and lived on the Coats farm for four years. Mr. Barry then bought a farm near Woodson, in Morgan county, and March 1, 1862, he moved there. Seventeen years were spent on this farm, but he finally sold the place and on March 1, 1879, he purchased the old Thompson homestead, near Merritt, and is now residing there.
In 1872 Mr. Barry visited his old home in England and spent three months with his relatives and boyhood friends. It is needless to say that he enjoyed his visit and came back to Scott county feeling amply repaid for the trip. Since coming to this country he has been a democrat and has taken a very active interest in political matters. He has worked very hard; has been faithful to his trust, and honest in the discharge of his every obligation. His toil in this country has borne its fruit, and as a result of his industry and economy he owns a fine farm and has everything conveniently arranged about the place. He has proven himself worthy and enjoys the respect and esteem of the people among whom he has cast his lot.