Transcribed by Larry Fearneyhough

Page 124

In 1862, April 7, George F. Longnecker was born on a farm about one mile east of Winchester, Scott county, Illinois. His parents, Joseph and Nancy Longnecker, came from Pennsylvania and settled in this county in 1846. As a lad he was not a "rover," remained upon the farm and was educated at the Winchester public schools.

After arriving at, or near, his majority he began casting about for a life calling, and entered the Jewelry store of Joseph Weiser at Roodhouse, where he served an apprenticeship and learned the watchmaker's trade. After serving his "time" he worked for Mr. Weiser for several years and then returned to Winchester, where he opened business in a small way for himself.

He placed his bench in one of the front windows of the general store of Dr. A. W. Burrows, who is now in Salt Lake City, Utah. Here he remained for some time and built up quite an extensive trade. He made several moves, however, before he became a permanent fixture in the business world. Early in the 90's Mr. Longnecker purchased the building on the south side of the square where he is now located and moved his stock of goods to that place. He carries an elegant line of watches, clocks, jewelry, notions, and musical merchandise and displays his goods in a manner both pleasing and attractive.

October 4, 1899, he was married to Miss Sophia Bentler, daughter of Clementine and Mary Bentler of Merritt. Mr. Longnecker is one of the progressive men of Winchester, is a good safe merchant, an experienced workman and, withal, an honest, upright, industrious citizen.