OTHER BIOGRAPHICAL INDEXES: 1879 1889 1903 1911 1930 BIOGRAPHIES Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois A Tale of its Evolution, Settlement and Progress for nearly a Century -         Vols. I & 2 By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z   WILLARD WALLACE ABBOTT.  To attain leadership in any business is not to possess qualities unusual to mankind but to possess them in higher degree and in a more harmonious and well balanced union.  The elements of success are those which can be cultivated by any individual and which grow by use.  It has been the exercise of activity that has kept Willard Wallace Abbott alert and brought him in the course of years to his present enviable position as superintendent of the Illinois Canning Company.      He was born in Oneida county, New York, July 7, 1848, a son of Alfred Willard and Mary Jane (Thompson) Abbott.  The father, also a native of Oneida county, New York, was born in 1818, became a millwright and patternmaker and followed those trades throughout his entire life.  He died in 1898, being survived for five years by his wife, who passed away in Newark, Wayne county, New York, in 1903.  She was then about eighty years of age, her birth having occurred at Charleston Four Corners in Schoharie county, New York, in 1823.      Willard W. Abbott pursued his education in the schools of Oneida county and of Camden, New York, to the age of fifteen years and then made his initial step in the business world, his first position being in a woolen factory at Camden, where he worked for two seasons.  At the end of that time his father apprenticed him to learn the machinist's trade, which he followed for two years, but had to abandon it because the heavy work was undermining his health.  He next took up what proved to be his life calling, obtaining employment with Annaias Edgett Company, vegetable and fruit packers at Camden.  There he first became acquainted with the canning business, remaining with that house for about a year.  He was next employed by the firm of Day Brothers, of Camden, New York, and after several years spent in learning the business in intermediate positions, he became superintendent of the canning company and eventually represented several New York companies in that capacity.  For a number of years he was superintendent of the Ezra Edgett Company, of Wayne county, New York, and also of the Wayne County Preserving Company.  For three years he was superintendent of the Oneida Community Canning Company, of Oneida, New York, and in 1880 he organized the United County Canning Company, of Verona, New York, and was superintendent there for one season.  In 1881 he established the business of the New Hartford Canning Company, of New Hartford, New York, and was in active connection therewith until the fall of 1885, when he reestablished the business of the Delhi Canning Company, of Delhi, Ontario.  He remained in Canada for two years, in 1885 and 1886.      In the spring of 1887 Mr. Abbott came to Hoopeston to accept the superintendency of the Illinois Canning Company.  In the intervening years he has inaugurated many changes and improvements and has been a recognized factor in the company's success.  He is now one of the stockholders and has shares in the company, of which he has been superintendent since 1887, although he spent several years at Vinton, Iowa, where he remodeled and rebuilt the plant of the Iowa Canning Company.  In the spring of 1904 he returned to Hoopeston and has sine bent his energies to the promotion of the business at this place.  This is one of the most extensive industries of the kind in the country, the output of the Illinois Canning Company for the year 1910 in corn and beans alone amounting to seven million cans.  Mr. Abbott is today one of the most widely known packers in the United States and the oldest in his line in years of continuous connection with the business.  He has introduced many features in bringing the business up to its present high state of perfection and there is no phase of the undertaking with which he is not perfectly familiar, while his opinions were regarded everywhere as authority upon questions of vital import to the canning industry.      Mr. Abbott has been married twice.  In Newark, New York, on the 4th of March, 1874, he wedded Miss Hannah Jane Bronk, who died at New Hartford, New York, in 1882, leaving three children.  Minnie Ella, born in Oneida county, New York, October 18, 1878, is the wife of Walter S. Kennedy, a resident of Aberdeen, Washington; Nellie May, born at East Newark, New York, August 18, 1880, is the wife of Kenneth Yeoman, a resident of Rossville, Illinois, where he is employed as a freight conductor on the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad; Alfred Willard, born in New Hartford, New York, May 8, 1882, is a resident of Barrington, Illinois, and is employed by the Chicago, Northwestern Railroad in the accounting department.  He married Myrtle Comstock, a native of Barrington.  The mother of these children died when her younger son was only three months old.  On the 24th of March, 1883, in New Hartford, New York, Mr. Abbott wedded Miss Jessie R. Patterson, a native of that place, and they have one daughter, Elizabeth Mabel, who was born at Delhi, Ontario, October 13, 1886, and has recently graduated from the Champaign University.      Mr. Abbott votes with the republican party and takes an active interest in local affairs although not a politician.  He holds membership in the Masonic fraternity, being connected with Star Lodge, No. 709 A. F. & A. M.  He also belongs to the Woodmen Camp, No. 257, of Hoopestown, and to the Odd Fellows society, in which he has filled all of the chairs.  His religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Presbyterian church.  He served for two years as one of its trustees and then after an interval was again called to that office, which he has filled for three years.  He is preeminently a business man, energetic, determined and progressive, and an alert, enterprising spirit ahs kept him in touch with all that pertains to the line of business in which he has so long engaged.  The success which has come to him as well merited, being the fitting crown of his perseverance and his labors. Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 492   EDWARD C. ABDILL was born May 14, 1840, a son of Irad and Rebecca Ann (Watson) Abdill, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Kentucky.  In their family were four sons who reached maturity.  The father was a hardware merchant carrying on business along that line in Indiana for a number of years.      Edward C. Abdill was reared under the parental roof, pursuing his education in the public schools.  He was a young man of only twenty-one years, when the Civil War broke out, but he had watched with interest the progress of events in the south, noted the dissatisfaction in the southern states on account of the growing opposition to the slavery system and he resolved that if an attempt was made to overthrow the Union he would strike a blow in its defense.  The war cloud gathered over the land and on the 15th of August, 1861, Mr. Abdill carried out his determination to become a soldier, joining the boys in blue of Company B, Eleventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, under the command of Colonel Lew (afterward General) Wallace.  With his regiment he participated in a number of important engagements, including the battles of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson, two of the most hotly contested engagements in the early part of the war.  He was detailed for special mail service, having charge of the mails and dispatches at General Grant's headquarters.  This service he rendered so efficiently that in December, 1863, he was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant and adjutant of the One Hundred and Twentieth Indiana Infantry.  After the fall of Vicksburg he was designated by General Grant to bear to the north the official dispatches announcing the great victory.  Not long after this Mr. Abdill was assigned to the First Brigade, First Division, Twenty-third Army Corps.  He took part in the battle of Vicksburg and the Atlanta campaign and at length was discharged on account of disability, in August, 1864.  His was a most creditable and honorable military record, in which he won continuous promotion by meritorious conduct upon the field of battle.      Mr. Abdill came to Illinois at the close of the war in 1865 and located in Fairmount, where he established a hardware business, conducting it for three years.  In 1868 he removed to Danville and entered into partnership with his older brother under the firm name of Abdill Brothers, dealers in hardware.  This enterprise was continued successfully up to the time of his death.  His business career was a creditable one, because of his fidelity to correct business principles, his unquestioned honesty and his earnest desire to please his patrons.  These qualities also contributed to his success, wining for him a handsome competence.      During the period of the war Mr. Abdill was married on the 13th of August, 1863, to Anna, daughter of Joseph Peters, one of the honored pioneers of Danville, who came to this city in 1833.  He made his way here an entire stranger.  He had no capital and was without influential friends or acquaintances at this place, and from an obscure position he arose to one of eminence, leaving the ranks of the many to stand among the successful few.  Soon after his arrival he took up the study of law and in order to support himself while pursuing his law studies he engaged in driving a team and followed other occupations that would held him an honest living.  During this time he devoted all of his leisure to the mastery of jurisprudence and eventually was admitted to the bar.  He then entered upon the practice of his profession and soon gave proof of his marked ability as a lawyer.  He was strong in argument, logical in his deductions and prosecuted his cases with great clearness.  His devotion to his clients' interests was proverbial and he prepared his cases with great thoroughness.  At an early age, such was his marked ability in his profession that he was elected county judge of Vermilion county and served two terms.  Other public honors were conferred upon him, including election to the office of state senator, and he left the impress of his individuality upon the legislation enacted during his membership in the upper house.  While serving in the senate he contracted a cold which greatly undermined his health.  He went to Denver, Colorado, hoping that he would be benefited by the change but it was of  no avail and he died at the comparatively early age of forty-seven years.  In his political affiliations he was a Republican.  He studied closely the questions and issues of the day and had a statesman's grasp of public affairs.  Christianty was also one of the motive powers of his life and he was known as a consistent and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church.  His wife, who bore the maiden name of Henrietta Blakely, was a native of Kentucky and died in Danville at the age of fifty-six years.  In their family were four children, who reached adult age.      The marriage of our subject and his wife was blessed with four children, all of whom are yet living:  Charles P., who is now the senior member of the hardware firm, controlling the business which was established by his father; Mrs. Bertha English, who is a resident of Memphis, Tennessee; Catherine; and Henry B.      Mr. Abdill was very prominent in public affairs, being well fitted for leadership, because of his strong individuality, his marked patriotism and his desire for the good of the county rather than for self-aggrandizement.  In politics he was a strong Republican.  He was officially connected with the Spring Hill Cemetery Association as its secretary and treasurer.  He was a member of the Loyal Legion and was largely interested in locating the Soldiers' monument at this place, contributing generously to the work, as well as becoming a champion of the cause.  He was largely instrumental in building the Vermilion County Hospital, served as one of its trustees, also as president of the board of directors, was likewise overseer of the building, and served on various committees connected with its successful conduct.  He held membership in the Kimber Methodist Episcopal church and to his efforts was largely due the erection of the present house of worship.  A deep feeling of sadness spread that Edward C. Abdill had passed from this life, but while those who knew him remain his memory will be cherished, not so much on account of the splendid success which he achieved in business, not because he contributed to the improvement of the city and promoted the commercial activity, although these would make him worthy to be long remembered, but because of his life of helpfulness and good cheer, of broad sympathy and his deep interest in and labors for the benefit of his fellow men.  His nature was so kindly and genial that he won not merely regard but that deeper feeling which, call it friendship or love, binds man in close relations to his fellow men in ties which naught can sever.  Thus it was that Danville has seldom so widely and sincerely mourned the loss of one of her residents.  For thirty-six years he was closely associated with her history and many of his friends, in thought at least, have breathed the sentiment.      "He was a man, take him for all in all.      I shall not look upon his like again." SOURCE: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 717   EPHRIAM ACREE came to Vermilion County directly from Alabama in 1829 Ephriam Acree came to Vermilion County directly from Alabama in 1829. He made a settlement in Catlin Township. He bought 130 acres of raw land upon which he built the house that all had at that time and fenced, and broke six acres the first season. The next year he managed to put thirty mere acres under cultivation. The corn raised could not bring more than six and a fourth cents per bushel and the mills were so far away that it was hard to get it ground so as to use it for food for the family. Joel Acree, his son, often took a sack of corn on horseback ten and sometimes fifteen miles to get it ground. Mr. Acree died in 1835 and was buried in the Butler burying ground. Joel Acree lived with his mother until 1848, when he was married to Elvessa Yount, daughter of one of the old settlers.      After his marriage Mr. Joel Acree purchased the interest of his brothers and sisters in the home place and as the younger children grew up he purchased theirs until it all was his. He bought other land from time to time until he was a great land owner in the county, besides having valuable land in Missouri. Ephriam Acree was the father of eleven children, in any of whom beside Joel were settled comfortably in Vermilion County. Joel Acree and Elvessa (Yount) Acree, his wife, were the parents of but two children who grew to maturity. Of these two daughters, the eldest became the wife of Thomas A. Taylor. Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol. I - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 136 - Submitted by Mary Paulius   GUY E. ALBERT, is the proprietor of a general mercantile store at No. 218 Logan avenue in Danville, one of the leading establishments of its kind in the city. His birth occurred in Blount township, Vermilion county, Illinois, on the 6th of September, 1868, his parents being Samuel and Hulda A. (Hilleary) Albert. The first representatives of the Albert family in this country came from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania, whence they afterward removed to Ohio. The maternal ancestors of our subject were also natives of Germany, coming from the fatherland to New Jersey and later taking up their abode in the Buckeye state. Samuel Albert, the father of Guy E. Albert, was born in Ohio in 1833 and accompanied his parents on their removal to this county. Here the grandfather devoted his attention to the pursuits of farming and stock-raising and Samuel Albert likewise gave his time and energies to agricultural interests throughout his active business career. His demise, which occurred on the 26th of February, 1885, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had won an extensive circle of friends during the many years of his residence in this county. His wife was called to her final rest on the 27th of January, 1886. Unto them were born four sons and one daughter, as follows: Guy E., of this review; Henry M., who follows farming on the old home place; George, who passed away October 25, 1857; John, who died in infancy, and Sarah J., who died February 23, 1881.      Guy E. Albert obtained his early education in the district schools of his native township and continued his studies until he had attained the age of eighteen. Following the death of his mother he continued the management of the home farm in association with his brother, Henry M., for a period of four years. At the end of that time he turned his attention to mercantile pursuits, being a partner in the establishment of a general store at Snyder, Vermilion county, in the conduct of which he was actively engaged for three years. Feeling, however, that the life of the farm was more beneficial and congenial to him, he disposed of his mercantile interests and once more became a tiller of the soil. His next removal was to Danville, where for several years he worked in some of the leading stores. In 1905 he embarked in business on his own account, opening a general mercantile establishment at No. 703 West Madison street. At the end of a year his trade had increased to such an extent that larger quarters were necessary and he therefore came to his present location at No. 218 Logan avenue. The number of his patrons, including many of Danville's leading citizens, is continually growing, owing to his straightforward and reliable business dealings and his earnest desire to give satisfaction.      On the 22d of November, 1893, Mr. Albert was united in marriage to Miss Daisy W. Fairchild, a daughter of Francis M. and Ina Fairchild, who for many years were representatives and respected residents of this county. The father was extensively and successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. Mr. and Mrs. Albert have a daughter, Ina H., whose birth occurred in Blount township in 1894.      In his political views Mr. Albert was originally a democrat but for many years he has supported and advocated the principles of the prohibition party, believing that the liquor traffic is one of the worst evils with which our country has to contend. During the years 1895 and 1896 he served as town clerk of Blount township. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Lincoln Methodist Episcopal church. He enjoys a wide and favorable acquaintance in the county where his entire life has been spent and has long been numbered among its most substantial and esteemed citizens.  SOURCE: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 708   WILLIAM J. ALEXANDER, whose operations in real estate have been most advantageous, constituting the source of his splendid success, belongs to that class of men to whom difficulties and obstacles serve but as an impetus to renewed and persistent effort. His sterling qualities of perseverance, determination and energy have formed the foundation upon which he has built his prosperity and the methods he has pursued in business have gained for him the honor and respect of his fellowmen. He was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, on the nth of February, 1833, and is a son of James and Letitia (Marshal) Alexander, both of whom died on the Emerald isle—their native land.      The youthful days of their son William were there passed and in the common schools he acquired a limited education. Reading, observation and experience have since greatly broadened his knowledge, making him a well informed man. About the time he attained his majority the call of the new world seemed to him irresistible and in 1854 or 1855 he crossed the Atlantic to the United States. From the eastern coast he gradually made his way westward to Peoria county, Illinois, where he remained for about six months, at the end of which time he went to Jacksonville, Illinois, where he had an uncle living. Entering the employ of this uncle, Mr. Alexander worked for him for several years, acquainting himself with the essential features of success in the work of farming and raising cattle. Ambitious to engage in business on his own account, he wisely saved his earnings until his industry and careful expenditure had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to purchase one hundred and sixty acres of land in Mason county, this investment being made about 1865 or 1866. A few years later he bought three hundred and twenty acres of land in Logan county, west of Lincoln, and from time to time he further added to his holdings. While living in Mason county he and his brother-in-law, Mr. Cathcart, secured a large tract of land on a five years' lease, made many excellent improvements thereon and developed and farmed the place. They also released portions of the tract to others and thus prospered.      In 1872 William J. Alexander purchased a section and a half of land on the Broadland tract in Champaign county, removing to that place in 1873. He there resided until 1905, during which period he purchased four hundred and eighty acres additional. All of this property he still owns with the exception of one hundred and sixty acres, so that his holdings in Illinois land comprise more than twelve hundred acres. In 1896 he went to Iowa and purchased over a section of land in Page and Fremont counties, all of which he has since sold. About 1902 he went to the Alberta country of Canada where he purchased eighteen sections of land, all of which he has since disposed of to advantage. For years he has engaged extensively in feeding cattle and this branch of his business is likewise proving profitable. In addition to his other interests he owns over two sections of land in Marion county, Ohio, and his farm property now aggregates about twenty-four hundred acres in Illinois, Iowa and Ohio. He has been very successful as a cattle feeder and land speculator, his judgment in business matters being at all times sound and reliable and his discrimination keen.      In 1905 Mr. Alexander was married to Miss Hattie Kyle of Ontario, Canada, and they have an extensive circle of warm friends in Sidell and throughout Vermilion county. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and his religious faith is manifest in his membership in the Christian church. His life has been one of continuous activity in which has been accorded due recognition of labor and today he in numbered among the substantial citizens of this county. His interests are thoroughly identified with those of this section of the state and at all times he is ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement calculated to benefit this section or advance its wonderful development.  SOURCE: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 479   CHARLES A. ALLEN, a resident of Hoopeston, is known as one of Illinois' representative and honored citizens. He has left and is leaving his impress upon public thought and action and is well qualified by nature for the position of leadership to which he has attained. He stands in preeminent position in the ranks of the republican party in Illinois and his legislative history, covering almost two decades, constitutes an important chapter in Illinois politics. Moreover, in all the private relations of life he has commanded the respect and confidence of those who know him and is most highly honored where best known, a fact which indicates that his record is one which will bear close investigation and scrutiny and contains no esoteric chapters.      Mr. Allen was born in Danville, Vermilion county, Illinois, July 26, 1851. His father, William I. Allen, was a native of Plain City, Madison county, Ohio, and devoted his life to farming. Removing westward to Illinois, he entered land at Hoopeston and adding to his possession from time to time, became the owner of three thousand acres in this county. He also practiced law in the early days, becoming a member of the Danville bar at the time when Abraham Lincoln was often seen in the courts of that city. Later he became interested in banking and at the time of the "wild cat" currency his financial affairs became involved and he lost all that he had made. His bank was located at Perrysville, Indiana, where he lived for a number of years. He was one of the first settlers of East Lynn and owned all of the land upon which the town of East Lynn now stands. At that time his nearest neighbor was about three miles away, a fact indicative of the unsettled condition of the country. In early manhood Mr. Allen was united in marriage to Miss Emily Newell, a native of Flemingsburg, Harrison county, Kentucky, and a daughter of Squire James Newell, a prominent early settler of Vermilion county, in whose honor the township of Newell was named. He took an active and helpful part in the work of development and progress in this portion of the state and was one of the most respected and honored of the early settlers. He died at an advanced age and was laid to rest in Grove cemetery in the town of Newell in 1846. As stated, his daughter Emily became the wife of William I. Allen and unto them were born six children: Hugh, a native of Vermilion county, is now a resident of the Elkhorn Valley, of Nebraska, where he owns extensive landed interests and is also a member of the Nebraska legislature; Mary, who was born in this county, is the wife of Thomas Van Brunt, a farmer of Dakota; Emily is still a resident of Vermilion, her native county; Klimena is the widow of George Koerner and still resides in Vermilion county; Anna, who was born in this county, has passed away.      The other member of the family is Charles A. Allen whose youthful days were spent upon the home farm in Ross township, Vermilion county, where his education was acquired in the district schools of that township, in the public schools of Danville and in Michigan University. While teaching school he provided the money necessary to defray the expenses of a college education and with a desire to become a member of the bar, he matriculated in the law department of the State University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, from which he was graduated on the 25th of March, 1874, on the completion of a two years' course. Admitted to practice before the Illinois bar, he settled at Rossville, Vermilion county, where he remained for about six years and then came to Hoopeston where he has since followed his profession in connection with the supervision of his farming interests which are extensive and valuable, representing a large investment. In his chosen profession he has made continuous progress. Although advancement at the bar is proverbially slow, no dreary novitiate awaited him. Almost immediately he proved his worth in solving the intricate problems of law and also in directly applying legal principles to the points in litigation. His analysis has ever been clear, his deductions logical and his arguments strong and forceful and he has long been recognized as one of the able lawyers practicing in this section of the state.      Mr. Allen is not alone well versed in the law, however, being equally well informed on those questions which are to the statesman and man of affairs of grave import. Few men possess wider information concerning the leading issues of the day or have discussed with greater clearness from the hustings and in legislative halls the questions which are up for consideration and settlement. His fellow townsmen, appreciating his ability and his loyalty to the public welfare, elected him as their representative to the state legislature in 1884 and for twenty-two years he thus served as a member of the general assembly. No higher encomium could be pronounced concerning the ability with which he safeguarded the interests of his constituents and of the common welfare than the fact that he was again and again reelected. He was chosen speaker of the house during the "revolt" in 1902. A contemporary historian has said: "His name figures conspicuously and prominently upon the legislative records and he has been the promoter of many measures which have found their way to the statute books of the state. He is a fearless champion of whatever course he believes to be right and his loyal defense of his honest convictions is one of the strong elements of his success in political circles.  Perhaps his name came into more general prominence in connection with what is known as the Allen bill than through any other measure. This was the street railway bill which he promoted, giving to the city councils and boards of supervisors the right of granting franchises not exceeding fifty years. The present law limits this term of franchise to twenty years. The bill which Mr. Allen promoted and fathered was carried by both houses and signed by the governor but was repealed with the next session of the legislature, Mr. Allen being the only man who voted against the repeal. Vermilion county has profited largely by his efforts in its behalf and upon the floor of the house Mr. Allen is known as an active working member deeply interested in his party's success, but placing the general good before personal partisanship."      Mr. Allen was married April 4, 1878, in Rossville, to Miss Mary Thompson, a daughter of Louis M. Thompson, who was born in this county where his people were early settlers. Their children are: John Newell; Lawrence T., attorney at law and county judge of Vermilion county; and Esther Mary, who was born in Hoopeston in 1897 and is now attending the public schools. The family residences on Washington street in Hoopeston is one of the attractive homes of the town and justly celebrated for its warm-hearted hospitality. In addition to this property Mr. Allen has extensive landed interests in Vermilion county and fifteen hundred acres in Fulton county. His patriotic devotion to his country is indicated in the fact that at the time of the Spanish-American war he raised the Sixteenth Illinois Regiment, of which Governor Tanner commissioned him colonel.      In his fraternal relations Mr. Allen is a Mason, a Knights of Pythias and a Modern Woodman. His wealth has been wisely shared with churches, charities and benevolent institutions and the deserving poor find in him a friend. He is often a visitor at the Old Settlers Home and takes great interest in preserving the records of the early development and progress of the state. He is well known as a republican speaker in campaigns and is an orator of ability who is frequently called upon to address public gatherings. Few men have been so long connected with public service and the record of none has been more faultless in honor, fearless in conduct and stainless in reputation. SOURCE: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 867 Lawrence T. Allen HON. LAWRENCE T. ALLEN.  One of the most successful among the younger representatives of the legal fraternity in Danville, is Lawrence T. Allen, who is now so efficiently serving as judge of the county court of Vermilion county.  He was born in Hoopeston on the 24th of October, 1882, and is a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family of this county, his parents being Charles A. and Mary (Thompson) Allen, both natives of Rossville.  His grandfather, William I. Allen, came to Danville in 1841, and in this county was united in marriage to Miss Emily Newell on the 17th of October, 1848.  Her father was Esquire Newell, for whom Newell township, this county, was named.  For a time the grandfather served as justice of the peace and was subsequently appointed by the county commissioners as county treasurer, in which capacity he served for several years.  On coming to this region he entered about three section of government land near Hoopeston, which he later sold to Thomas Hoopes, in whose honor the town was named.  During the Civil war he entered the Union service as captain of the company, but did not serve throughout the entire struggle.  The deaths of both himself and wife occurred in Hoopeston.  They were among the early settlers of Vermilion county and were very prominent in its pioneer history.      Charles A. Allen, the father of the judge, is a graduate of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and was successfully engaged in the practice of law in this county for a number of years. A man of marked ability, he early became a recognized leader in political affairs and was called upon to serve in the state legislature, being a member of the general assembly for the long period of twenty-four years. He has filled that position continuously with the exception of one term, and is today the oldest legislator in point of service in the state. In early manhood he married Miss Mary Thompson, a daughter of Lewis M. and Judith (Burrough) Thompson, who were married August 7, 1848, in Danville, and were also early settlers of this region. Her father entered a tract of government land at Danville, where he still continues to make his home and is now living retired.      Judge Allen obtained his early education in the schools of Hoopeston, and after leaving high school, entered the University of Illinois at Urbana, where he pursued a law course and was graduated in 1905. He also pursued a literary course in that institution and at the University of Chicago, and was well equipped to engage in his chosen profession on his admission to the bar in 1905. He began practice in connection with his father in Danville, and is regarded as an able advocate and safe counselor. On the 8th of June, 1909, he was elected judge of the county court to fill a vacancy, reelected November 8, 1910, without opposition, and is now most acceptably discharging the duties of that office. Recognizing the fact that close study must be the basis of legal knowledge and a liberal foundation upon which is built the pedestal of success, he has carried his investigations far and wide into the realm of jurisprudence, and is well versed in principle and precedent.      Socially he affiliates with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, and in military circles has become widely known, holding the rank of lieutenant in Battery A, Artillery Battalion, Illinois National Guards. But it is in professional circles that he is best known, and today he is the youngest man to occupy the position of county judge in this county, and is said to be the youngest in the state. Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 158   O. W. ALLISON, M. D. Although one of the later arrivals of Catlin and numbered among the younger professional men of that village, Dr. O. W. Allison has, nevertheless, by reason of the comprehensive training and experience which he has received in the line of his profession, won a place for himself among the leading physicians and surgeons of the county, having already secured an extensive and representative practice which is constantly growing in volume and importance. One of Indiana's native sons, he was born in State Line on the 13th of December, 1876, a son of W. H. and Minerva (Daniels), Allison, the former born in Illinois and the latter in Indiana. Both parents still survive and make their home in State Line, Indiana. Their family consisted of two children, their daughter Kathrine being now the wife of L. Hotaling of Tuscola, Illinois. Their only son, O. W. Allison, was reared under the parental roof and attended the public schools in the acquirement of his early education, passing through consecutive grades until his graduation from high school in due course of time. Later he attended school at Terre Haute, Indiana, from which he was graduated in 1901, and he received his professional training at the Rush Medical College of Chicago, winning his degree with the class of 1905. Immediately after his graduation from the latter institution he spent four months as interne in the Presbyterian Hospital of Chicago and later served for six months in a hospital at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Then, with thorough practical experience to serve as a supplement to his professional training, he came to Catlin in 1906, opening up an office here for the practice of his chosen calling, and has since made this town the field of his operations. Although his residence in this town has been comparatively brief, the position to which he has already attained is but another proof that ability and worth will ever win quick recognition. Still young in years, he has manifested in this, the beginning of his career, certain qualities which have already won him a foremost place in the medical ranks of the community and which augur well for continued and increasing success in the future. Something of his standing in the community is indicated by the fact that, in addition to an excellent private practice which has been accorded him he has been chosen medical examiner for various fraternal organizations and business enterprises, among which are the Modern Woodmen of America, the Court of Honor, the Illinois Life Insurance Company, the Interurban Traction Company and the Peoria Life Insurance Company.      It was on the 24th of December, 1907, that Dr. Allison laid the foundation for a happy home life by his marriage to Miss Lillian Benson, a native of Vermilion county, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. O. C. Benson. Her father still resides in this county, although the mother has passed away. Mrs. Allison is one of a family of four children and by her marriage to Dr. Allison has become the mother of a little daughter, Audray, born on the 1st of August, 1909. The parents occupy a prominent place in the social circles of the city, while Dr. Allison is well known in fraternal circles, being a member of Mound Lodge, No. 274, A. F. & A. M., of State Line, Indiana; Mayfield Lodge, No. 635, K. P., of Catlin; the Modern Woodmen Camp, No. 341, also of Catlin; and of the Court of Honor. Of these he has ever been an exemplary member, conforming his life to the high principles upon which the various crafts are based, and in both his private and professional life he has manifested those sterling traits of character which make for good citizenship in any community. His professional interests are promoted through his membership in the Vermilion County Medical Society, the Illinois State Medical Society, the American Medical Association, and the Aesculapian Society of the Wabash valley.   Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page Pg. 296   OTHO ALLISON was a resident of Harrison County, Kentucky, until he came to Indianapolis, Ind., in 1826, where he stayed two years and then came to Vermilion County, Illinois.  He was a miller as well as a farmer.  Upon coming to the county Mr. Allison entered a claim of one hundred and twenty acres, five miles from Danville, in Newell township.  This included eighty acres of prairie and forty acres of timber land, and it was in a raw state; not a bit of improvement had ever been made.  During his boyhood days, Alfred Allison went with his father, Otho Allison, to Chicago, and saw the Indians paid off after the Black Hawk war.  His father also showed him the first brick building eer put up in that city.  Otho Allison was the father of thirteen children, eleven sons and two daughters. Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol I - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 131   THEODORE E. ANDERSON. For twenty-two years Theodore E. Anderson has now been identified with the business interests of Danville and is today most capably serving as secretary and superintendent of the Spring Hill Cemetery Association. A native of Illinois, he was born in Coles county, on the 8th of November, 1862, and on the paternal side is of Scotch-Irish descent, the family being founded in Pennsylvania at an early day, from that state its representatives removed to Indiana. His parents were John Wesley and Lucretia (Day) Anderson, both natives of Terre Haute, Indiana. The father, who was a stationary engineer by occupation, died November 27, 1883, but the mother is still living.      Theodore E. Anderson attended the public schools of Terre Haute and of other places but at the early age of fourteen years he left school and began earning his own livelihood. The family being in rather limited circumstances necessitated his seeking employment at that time. For a period of five years he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, working at farming and gardening near his home, but at the end of that time found employment with the Terre Haute Car Company, where he served an apprenticeship as a machinist and finally became an expert wheelman. In 1888 he came to Danville, Illinois, and for twenty years was with the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad as foreman of their wheel department at this place. On the 21st of June, 1894, he became associated with the Spring Hill Cemetery Association and was elected superintendent and secretary of the company, which position he is still filling to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.      On the 7th of November, 1883, Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Mollie E. Stalcup, a native of Indiana, who died November 29, 1893. They became the parents of three children, namely: Walter, who died September 8, 1903; Charles, who died July 5, 1886; and Lillie May, who was born February 1, 1890. Mr. Anderson was again married in Danville, August 5, 1896, his second union being with Miss Marietta M. Borland a native of Danville, who successfully engaged in teaching in the public schools of this city for several years. She is a daughter of George W. And Mary J. Borland, both now deceased, who were old residents of Vermilion County. The father was a merchant tailor throughout his active business life. By his second marriage Mr. Anderson has two children: Elizabeth Viola, born February 14, 1903; and John Wesley, born April 21, 1906.      Mr. Anderson has taken high rank in Masonry, having attained to the thirty -second degree in the Scottish rite. He is also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Tribe of Ben Hur and the Knights of Pythias and has filled all of the chairs in the last named organization. Religiously he holds membership in the First Methodist Episcopal church of Danville. By his ballot he supports the men and measure of the Republican Party and has taken quite an active and influential part in local politics and for one term served as a member of the city council from his ward. He is also president of the board of education of the Roselawn school district .He is an enterprising and progressive citizen, who takes a commendable interest in public affairs, and during his residence in Danville has made a host of warm friends. Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol. II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 228 - Submitted by Mary Paulius   J. A. ANDREWS.  For sixty years J. A. Andrews has been a resident of Newell township, Vermilion county. Here he has witnessed great changes and here he has grown from a country lad to a man of intelligence and energy, who has assisted in an important degree in the transformation of the region so that it is now one of the richest farming districts of Illinois—the abode of comfort and happiness. Mr. Andrews first saw the light of day June 3, 1850. He is a son of D. P. and Rhoda (Zumwalt) Andrews, the former a native of New York state and the latter of Kentucky. The father came to Illinois as a member of the pioneer family of Andrews in 1829 and the mother came with her parents when she was in her girlhood. After their marriage they settled on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres that he had bought and continued increasing the area of the farm until it included three hundred and seventy-one acres, all of which was improved except forty acres, which was in timber. The farm is still owned by members of the family. Mr. Andrews departed this life February 17, 1879, and his wife was called away November 9, 1897, Their bodies lie side by side in Walnut Corner cemetery.      J. A. Andrews received his education in a country schoolhouse and grew to manhood upon the farm, where he proved a willing assistant in all farm operations and became thoroughly acquainted with the details of agriculture and stock-raising, showing a judgment that was indicative of his further success. At twenty-one years of age he took charge of part of the homestead and after his father's death he became owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land as his share of the estate. This land he has improved to a high degree and he also increased the size of his place about eighty acres, so that at the present time he is the owner of a farm of two hundred and forty acres with a handsome modern residence and all the accessories of a well regulated establishment. On April 2, 1878, Mr. Andrews was united in marriage to Miss Annie Johnson, who came to Illinois from Indiana with her parents about 1850, the family locating in Vermilion county, where Mr. Johnson engaged in farming until about 1900. He then leased his farm and retired to Bismarck, where he died in August, 1904, his wife having been called away February 12, 1891. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Andrews: Clara G., who was born February 3, 1880, and died July 29, 1889; Ross A., who was born September 25, 1882, and died January 17, 1902; Leon H., born July 19, 1885, who was married to Miss Onie White and now lives in Ross township; Richard C., born July 25, 1888, and living at home; Ora H., born April 26, 1891, and also living at home; Everett R., born July 26, 1894; and Eugene M., born June 6, 1908.      Mr. Andrews is in sympathy with the principles of the republican party and has been honored by selection to public office by the people of his township, discharging his duties with fidelity and promptness. He served as commissioner of highways for three years and as member of the school board for twenty-five years. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 893, of Bismarck, and also of the Modern Woodmen of America, Lodge No. 2405, also of Bismarck. The success of Mr. Andrews has been due, as it generally is, to an inherent ambition to accomplish something worthy in life. He keeps well informed on the general events of the day and has always been alive to the progress of the county where he was born and in which his deepest interest is centered. He is easily among the leaders in anything he desires to undertake. It is men of this class that are most important in the progress and permanency of any community.  Source: The History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company  - 1911 - Page 454 NOTES:

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