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OTHER BIOGRAPHICAL INDEXES:
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
Oscar F. Harmon |
OSCAR FITZALLEN HARMON
who was born in Rochester, N. Y., on May 31, 1827, was the
second of six sons of Ira and Corinna (Brown) Harmon.
His mother was the lineal descendent of Steven Hopkins
of the Mayflower. The great-great-grandfather.
Tristrane Brown, was, in the early days of the country a
landed slave holder in southeastern New York. The
grandfather of Oscar Fitzallen Harmon, Solomon Brown, was
a "minute man" in the war of the Revolution. He was
afterward a baptist minister in Western New York. His
father's first ancestor to arrive in this country was John
Harmon of Norfolk County, Eng., who landed at Plymouth Rock
in 1643. He lived in Springfield, Mass., from 1644 until
his death in 1661. Two of John Harmon's
descendents, Samuel and Joseph settled in Suffield
Count in 1670. The branch of the family from which
Oscar Harmon spring, lived in western Massachusetts through
the 18th Century, and his grandfather Rawson Harmon
removed to Monroe County, New York in about 1818. He
preempted government land and settled himself and six sons in
the wonderful Genesee valley. Oscar F. Harmon,
having been reared by parents who were of the Baptist
denomination, professed his faith in Christ and united with that
church, at the age of seventeen years. About this time he
wrote in his diary (one leaf of which only is to be had) of his
deep desire for a good education and his wish to enter college.
This privilege, however, was given only to the oldest son of the
family who enjoyed a course at Yale and afterwards having
married at Brown. Beside the school near his home Oscar
F. Harmon attended school at Limi, N. Y., also the
Bancroft school called Round Top at Northampton, Massachusetts.
His decision about this time to become a lawyer sent him to the
then celebrated law school at Ballstron, Spa., N. Y., where he
studied for a year and a half. He then entered the law
office in Rochester of Judge Griffin and Judge Darwin
E. Smith and read law with them for another year and a half
and on December 3rd, 1850, was examined before the Supreme Court
of the state of Albany and granted a certificate of admission to
practice as attorney and counselor at law. He taught
school for a time near his home. Deciding to go west he
visited Detroit and remaining in La Fayette for several weeks,
he located permanently in Danville in 1853. In 1854 he was
admitted to the Illinois Bar and in 1860 to the U. S. Circuit
Court for the Southern District of Illinois. He then
formed a law partnership with Oliver L. Davis, which
continued until the latter was appointed Judge. Mr.
Harmon was a representative from the 37th Senatorial
District in the 21st General Assembly for 1858-'60. When
the 125th Regiment, Illinois Infantry, was formed, Oscar F.
Harmon was made the Colonel. He led his men with
unfaltering courage into all danger and at the battle of Kenesaw
mountain, met his death from a bullet of the enemy. Never
was there a more brave soldier, nor commander whom his men loved
better. His death case a gloom over Vermilion County and
his name is reverenced with honor.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. I
- Pub. 1911 - Page 390 |
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R. L. HATFIELD, M. D.
Among the younger members of the medical fraternity in Danville
is numbered Dr. R. L. Hatfield, whose laudable ambition
and well developed skill have brought him to a prominent place
in the ranks of the medical fraternity here. One of Ohio's
native sons, he was born in Piqua on the 20th of June, 1879. His
father, T. P. Hatfield, was a native of Miami county,
Ohio, where he still resides, following the occupation of
farming. He married Catherine LeFevre, also a native of
Ohio.
In the public schools of his native city Dr.
Hatfield pursued his early education and when he completed
his literary course devoted one year to the study of medicine in
a physician's office in that city. Later he entered the Chicago
Medical College, in which he pursued a four years' course, being
graduated with the class of 1903. For a year and a half he was
house physician and surgeon at the Cook County Hospital of
Chicago and added to his theoretical training the broad
practical experience of hospital practice. In 1905 he came to
Danville where he has since specialized in the treatment of
diseases of women-and in surgical practice. He has been accorded
a liberal patronage and his skill and ability are evidenced in
the excellent results which have followed his labors. Anything
that tends to bring to man the key to the complex mystery which
we call life receives his earnest attention and consideration.
He readily takes up any new idea which he believes will prove of
practical value in the profession, yet is not quick to discard
the old and time-tried remedial agencies the value of which has
long been proven.
On the 26th of November, 1906, Dr. Hatfield was
united in marriage to Miss Helen Webster,
and has one daughter, Catherine. His fraternal relations
are with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the
Kiiights of Pythias and the Masons, and these organizations find
him an exemplary representative, loyal to their teachings and
interests. Both Dr. and Mrs. Hatfield occupy a prominent
position socially and have many friends in Danville, their many
good qualities commending them to the confidence, good will and
friendship of all vritb whom they come in contact. In strictly
professional lines Dr. Hatfield is connected with
the Vermilion County Medical Society, the Illinois State Medical
Society, the American Medical Association and the Physicians
Club, and in the interchange of thought and interests in those
organizations and in the discussion of vital questions relative
to health, he gains much valuable knowledge and thus promotes
his efficiency in his chosen field.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II
- Pub. 1911 - Page 279 |
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WILLIAM HAWKINS.
Spending the evening of life in his beautiful home in
Catlin, William Hawkins is now living in honorable
retirement, enjoying in well earned rest the success that came
to him as the logical result of well directed effort and earnest
endeavor. One of Indiana's contributions to the citizenship of
Illinois, he was born in Wayne county, that state, on the first
of January, 1831, a son of Nathan and Sarah (Wright)
Hawkins, both natives of Indiana, where their entire lives
were spent. In that state they reared their family, consisting
of ten children, of which number six are yet living. The
Hawkins family came originally from Ireland but,
being Quakers, were driven from that county on account of their
religious belief and first settled in Jamaica. Shortly afterward
they came to the United States, no long after the first
settlement was made at Jamestown, and located in what is now
South Carolina, near the city of Charleston. Later the family
scattered throughout the northern and eastern states and when
the west was open for settlement some of the more adventurious
moved to the new country. Today representatives of the name are
found all over the country.
William Hawkins is indebted to the common
schools of his native state for the educational advantages
acquired, and in the Indiana homestead he spent the period of
his boyhood and youth, assisting his father in the work of the
fields when not busily engaged with his text-books. At an early
age he became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of
the country lad, and with the passing of the years, as he
increased in strength and experience, his duties became more and
more important and his training in agricultural lines thorough
and comprehensive. He remained with his parents until twenty-six
years of age, when he married and started out in the business
world on his own account, wisely choosing as a life work the
occupation to which he had been reared.
In March, 1860, Mr. Hawkins arrived in
Vermilion county, Illinois, and here rented a farm which he
operated until August, 1862, when, putting aside all personal
interests, he enlisted for service in the Union army, becoming a
corporal in Company G, One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Illinois
Volunteer Regiment He served for three years, or throughout the
remainder of hostilities, being mustered out with the rank of
sergeant. He participated in many of the hotly contested and
important engagements of the war, including the battle of
Kenesaw Mountain, Missionary Ridge, and the engagement at
Perryville, Kentucky, and many others, and also marched with
Sherman to the sea. He received an honorable discharge at
Washington, D. C, and returned home with a most creditable
military career.
After the close of the war Mr. Hawkins
returned to Vermilion county and here purchased eighty acres of
land, upon which he made his home. For a number of years he
devoted his time and attention to the further development and
improvement of his place, and in connection with general farming
he engaged in stock-raising, making, a specialty of raising and
feeding cattle and hogs. The thorough training which he received
in the early days upon his father's farm well fitted him for the
successful conduct of an enterprise of this character, and his
keen business sagacity and his wise management were resultant
factors in the success which attended his efforts. His
prosperity was most substantial and gratifying and at last made
it possible for him to retire from active business life and
enjoy in well earned rest the fruits of his former toil.
Consequently, in 1905 he left the farm and came to Catlin, where
he built the beautiful residence which is now his home. As he
prospered he constantly added to his possessions until now he is
the owner of over three hundred acres of rich and valuable land
in addition to his town property and is recognized as one of the
substantial and representative citizens of the community.
In March, 1855, Mr. Hawkins was united in
marriage to Miss Duannah Burgoin, a native
of Ohio, and unto them were born five children, namely:
Elizabeth, the wife of George Patterson, of
Catlin; Nora B., who married Thomas A. Church,
of Catlin township; Luella, the wife of Arthur Woods,
also residing in this township; Marietta, the wife of Gale
Taylor, making his home in Catlin township; and William,
deceased. On the 23d of November, 1895, the wife and mother
passed away, and on the 4th of March, 1898, Mr.
Hawkins was again united in marriage, his second union being
with Mrs. Tina (Payne) Shelton, who was born in
Livingston county, Illinois, and was a daughter of Squire L.
and Margaret Payne, both now deceased. She was one of a
family of nine children, and by her marriage to Mr. Shelton
became the mother of five children, as follows: Frank, now
deceased; Hattie, the wife of T. W. Church, of
Vermilion county; Maggie, the wife of Oscar
Kidd; Clara, single, living in this county; and
Edna, who married Roy Clingan of this county.
The religious faith of Mr. Hawkins is
indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church of Catlin,
to which his wife also belongs, and they are well known
socially, the hospitality of their home being enjoyed by a large
circle of warm friends. Fraternally Mr. Hawkins is
connected with the blue lodge of Masons, No. 285, at Catlin, in
which he has filled part of the chairs, and maintains pleasant
relations with his old army comrades through his membership in
the Grand Army of the Republic at Georgetown. Politically he is
a republican, giving stanch allegiance to the party which was
the support of the Union during the dark days of the Civil war,
and although he has never been a politician in the sense of
office seeking, he served as a school director for several
years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart
champion. Although he has long since passed the Psalmist's
allotted span of three score years and ten, he yet takes a deep
interest in public affairs, keeping well posted on the questions
and issues of the day, and is recognized as one of Catlin's
honored and valued citizens.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. -
Vol. II - Pub. 1911 - Page
302 |
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H. T. HAWORTH, the
efficient postmaster of Georgetown, is numbered among the worthy
native sons of Vermilion county, his birth having here occurred
on the 6th of July, 1869. His parents, Benjamin and
Rebecca Ann Haworth, were both natives of Indiana, whence
they came to this county in the '50s. Here they continued to
reside until 1871, when they returned to the Hoosier state.
After a short time, however, they again took up their abode in
Vermilion county and it was here that the mother was called to
her final rest in February, 1906. Benjamin Haworth
then again returned to Indiana and is still living in that
state, having now attained the age of eighty-three years. Unto
him and his wife were born eleven children, eight of whom are
yet living.
H. T. Haworth pursued his
education in the common schools and remained under the parental
roof until he had attained his majority. At that time he rented
his father's farm and was busily engaged in its operation until
1901, when he took charge of the mail route, driving for five
years. On the expiration of that period he was appointed
postmaster of Georgetown and has since been the able and
faithful incumbent in the office, discharging his duties in a
businesslike and practical manner.
On the 11th of April, 1892, Mr. Haworth
was united in marriage to Miss Luranah W. Reid, who was
born in Georgetown, Illinois, on the 9th of January, 1874, her
parents being Darius B. and Sarah (Cowan) Reid. The
father passed away in August, 1906, but the mother still
survives and makes her home here. Their children were five in
number. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Haworth were born two children,
both of whom died in infancy.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise
Mr. Haworth has supported the men and measures of the
republican party but has not sought nor desired office.
Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, the Knights of
Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, while his wife
belongs to the Eastern Star at Georgetown. He was reared in the
Quaker faith and Mrs. Haworth is a Methodist in
religious belief. They are well known and highly -esteemed
throughout the community and the number of their friends has
steadily increased as the circle of their acquaintances has
widened.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II -Pub. 1911 - Pg. 288 |
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JOHN HAWORTH
came to the little Vermilion at very nearly the
same time as Henry Canady and they were
close friends as long as they lived. The
two families have inter-married and had common
interests during all the years since their
coming. A Mr. Malsby built a cabin
where Vermilion Grove is located, so his claim
to citizenship is not valid. John
Haworth, as early as 1818, was living in
Tennessee, but had become so distressed with the
institutions of the south that he could no
longer endure life there. He lived in
Union County, so he came to the little vermilion
river in the fall of 1820. Where he found
the cabin deserted by Malsby and took
possession of it and wintered in it.
George Bock, a son-in-law of Achilles Morgan,
had a cabin, but Mr. Haworth bought it.
John Haworth's cousin James later came to
Georgetown. John Haworth's
neighbors were Henry Johnson and
Absolom Starr, off a few miles northwest;
Mr. Squires and Thomas Curtis at
Yankee Point, three miles east; John Mills,
Simon Cox and Dickson to the west,
with Henry Canaday near by.
Mr. Haworth entered several hundred acres of
land but he did not do this as a speculation.
Indeed he was ready to sell it whenever he
could find any one who would make a desirable
citizen, and he would sell it cheap and on time
if so desired. John Haworth's name
has gone into history as a man well being called
a Christian gentleman. He was the father
of eight children. His uncle, a man of
much worth, soon joined this settlement, and,
together with Henry Canaday, established
the strong Society of Friends in Vermilion
County who were so great a factor in its
development.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II
-Pub. 1911 - Pg. 109 |
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ARMOUR
HEATON. It is a pleasure to meet a successful man.
He conveys an idea of confidence and energy and it is by contact
with such men that we receive new strength and go forth to meet
the world with new courage and resolution, leading in many
instances to an entire revolution in character. It is also
a pleasure to write of a successful man and there is no doubt
that the records contained in this work will be of lasting
benefit to many who read them, thereby gaining new inspiration
for the great battle, in which no substitute is accepted, and
each is required to fight it out on his own account. Among
the successful men of Grant township, Vermilion county, may be
named Armour E. Heaton, who was born March 1, 1862, in
Coshocton county, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth
(Deviny) Heaton, the former born in Coshocton county in
1824, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania. The father
came to Vermilion county in 1865 and bought a farm of one
hundred and twenty-five acres, which he increased to town
hundred acres, becoming one of the prosperous farmers of the
county. He departed this life in 1891, after an active and
useful career in which he exemplified the teachings of the
Christian church and became universally respected wherever he
was known.
The subject of this review grew up as a farmer boy and
was educated in the district schools. Under his father he
became thoroughly acquainted with the various operations of
agriculture and stock-raising and, desiring to carry on business
independently, he purchased forty acres of land in 1892, which
he proceeded diligently to develop. Later he added forty
acres to his original holding and when a favorable opportunity
presented itself sold his farm and bought one hundred acres in
section32, Grant township. After holding this land for a
time he disposed of it, purchasing one hundred and fifty-three
acres on section 3, the same township, and here he has since
resided, making it one of the attractive spots in the region.
On February 9, 1892, Mr. Heaton was united in
marriage to Miss Ella Jane Cronkhite, a daughter of
Stpehen Cronkite, of this county. Mrs. Heaton
had proven to her husband a faithful and sympathetic companion,
and five children have been born to them, four of whom are
living, Joseph, Carroll, Alma and Nellie.
Mr. and Mrs. Heaton are actively identified with
the Christian church and are earnest believers in the teachings
upon which the church is founded. Since arriving at
maturity he has affiliated with the republican party and votes
for the men and measures that he believes are best adapted to
advance the welfare of the state and nation. In all his
acts Mr. Heaton is governed by a high sense of duty and
by his integrity and worth he has gained the friendship of the
best people in this region.
Source: Vol. II History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II - Pub. 1911
- Page 533 |
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HUGH HEATON.
On the list of honored dead of Vermilion county appears the name
of Hugh Heaton, who for about two decades was
closely associated with the sheep-raising industry in Vermilion
county, while later he lived retired in Hoopeston, spending the
last few years of his life there in the enjoyment of a well
earned and well merited rest. He was born in Coshocton, Ohio,
April 15, 1822, his father being Isaac Heaton, a
native of Pennsylvania, who removed from that state to
Coshocton, Ohio. In early life he had learned and followed the
cooper's trade but after going to the Buckeye state turned his
attention to farming.
Hugh Heaton pursued his
education in the schools of Ohio and Pennsylvania, and after
completing his literary course engaged in teaching school for
three years. Subsequently he studied medicine for three years
under Dr. Culver, of Coshocton, Ohio, and lacked
one year of graduation when he turned his attention to the
stock-raising business in connection with his preceptor, making
a specialty of sheep. In 1864 he came to Vermilion county,
bringing with him twenty-one hundred head of sheep, which he
herded upon the prairies of Grant township. He found a ready
market for the sale of his live stock, and as the years passed
attained substantial and gratifying prosperity. He made
judicious investment in property until he became the owner of
nearly one thousand acres of land, but in the wide-spread
financial panic of 1873 he became involved, as did thousands of
others, and lost heavily. He continued in the sheep-raising
industry until 1882, and during the intervening years largely
retrieved his lost possessions, so that he retired from business
with a handsome competence that supplied him with the
necessities and comforts of life during his remaining days and
enabled him to leave his family a goodly competence when he was
called to his final rest.
Mr. Heaton was twice married. In early
manhood he wedded Olivia McCoy, and unto them were born
four sons and one daughter, of whom two are now living:
Joseph W. Heaton, a well known clothier of Hoopeston;
and Isaac L. Heaton, a resident farmer of Kansas. On the
4th of May, 1864, Mr. Heaton was married to
Miss Mary R. Reece, a daughter of David W. and
Nancy Wilson Reece, natives of Tennessee, who removed from
that state to Indiana, where they cast in their lot among the
pioneer farmers. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heaton was
blessed with five children, two daughters and three sons:
Nancy, now the wife of L. H. Griffith; Alice A.,
at home; Dr. John A. Heaton, a practicing physician of
Hoopeston; Orth W., a business man of Hoopeston; and
Reece, living in Wyoming.
In his political views Mr. Heaton was a
republican from the time of the organization of the party. He
was a public-spirited man, cooperating in various measures that
he regarded as of essential worth to the community. He belonged
to the First Methodist church and in early life became a member
of the Masonic fraternity. He enjoyed meeting with his friends,
possessing a most social nature and a kind and loving
disposition. To his family he was a devoted husband and father
and his many good qualities were recognized by all who knew him.
He died December 9, 1885, and although a quarter of a century
has since come and gone, his memory is cherished by many who
knew him. His business activity was a valued element in the
early progress of the county, especially along agricultural and
kindred lines, and at all times his genuine worth firmly
established him in the regard of those with whom he was
associated.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II -
Pub. 1911 - Page 527 |
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ISAAC NEWTON HEATON,
well known as a prosperous farmer of Grant township, Vermilion
county, who has been identified with the agricultural interests
of the region since his boyhood, was born in Coshocton county,
Ohio, September 6, 1851. He comes of Scotch-Irish ancestry and
is the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Deviny) Heaton. His
father was born in Coshocton county in 1824. He grew up as a
farmer and, desiring to improve his condition, came to Vermilion
county in 1865, bringing with him his wife and three children.
He purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres, which
he increased until he became the owner of a well improved farm
provided with modern dwellings and appliances and embracing two
hundred acres. He was called away in I891, his death being
deeply mourned by the community. He was for many years a useful
citizen and an active worker in the Christian church. His
faithful companion was a daughter of Samuel Deviny,
of Pennsylvania, and she became the mother of three children.
Isaac Newton Heaton was educated in the district
schools, after which he pursued the higher branches under the
favorable auspices of the Rossville high school. He has from his
earliest recollection been connected with farming, remaining
with his father until twenty-seven years of age and working
industriously on the home farm, as he has always believed in
doing the work at hand cheerfully and well. After beginning
operations independently he made rapid progress and is now the
owner of sixteen hundred and seventy-five acres of land and is
one of the substantial farmers of Vermilion county. He is also a
stockholder in the Hoopeston National Bank, the Farmers Grain
Company of Heaton, and the Carlyle Canning Company, of Carlyle,
Arkansas. By his business ability and good judgment in all
undertakings, Mr. Heaton has gained a high
standing and his advice is often sought in business affairs by
friends and acquaintances who are desirous .of proceeding along
well approved lines.
In 1900 Mr. Heaton was happily united in
marriage to Miss Olive Goodwine, a daughter of Abner
Goodwine, who for many years was one of the largest
landowners in Warren county, Indiana, and was known as a man of
unusual personal worth. Three children have been born to Mr.
and Mrs. Heaton: Newton Bland,
Edna E, and Raymond Lester.
Mr. Heaton is an active worker in the
Christian church and has for some time occupied the responsible
position of deacon. He was one of the liberal contributors
toward the new church building at Heaton and is identified with
the republican party, although he has devoted his attention to
his business interests rather than to politics. He is recognized
as one of the most prominent men in the Antioch settlement—an
honor which he has earned by many years of rightly directed
effort.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II - Pub. 1911
- Page 499 |
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ELI HENDERSON.
Mr. Eli Henderson came to the county about the Little
Vermilion in 1824 and brought his son, Elam, a boy of about
fourteen, with him. Mr. Eli Henderson lived in this community
until his death in 1833. Soon after the death of his father,
Elam Henderson married Mary Golden and they moved to
Georgetown Township, where they accumulated large property.
Mr. Henderson was elected to the office of County Commissioner
in 1836. After filling this office three years, he was elected
associate justice. He kept this office about nine years or
until the county went under township organization. Mr.
Henderson became a merchant in 1853 and continued in that
business for more than twenty years. With the exception of two
years he was supervisor of his township from 1857 to 1873. Mr.
Henderson was an old line Whig up to the dissolution of that
party after which he was a staunch republican. He was
connected with the Society of Friends, as was his father
before him.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. I - Pub. 1911
- Page 119 - Submitted by Mary Paulius |
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CHARLES HILLMAN,
the owner of a valuable farm in Vermilion county and a soldier
of the Civil war now living retired, was born in Montreal,
Canada March 8, 1840. He is a son of Edward and Hannah
Hillman,
the latter a native of Scotland and the former of England. The
father went to Canada with his parents when he was quite young
and in later life took up his residence in New York state, where
he died. The subject of this review was left an orphan by the
death of his mother when he was nine years of age, at that time
going to live with a farmer who treated him so unkindly that at
thirteen he ran away and sought employment under more favorable
conditions. Owing to the various fluctuations which took place
while he was growing up, he had little opportunity for such
training, but, being a man of intelligent observation and a
reader of good literature, he years ago overcame this handicap.
At sixteen he secured a position in a lumber camp in Canada,
where he continued for a short time, when he came to St. Joseph,
Illinois, remaining there about a year and then taking up his
residence at Pilot Grove.
Soon after the breaking out of the Civil war Mr. Hillman
enlisted in Company I, Thirty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and after
being sent to the front participated in a number of the great
battles, among them that of Stone River, Perryville and
Chickamauga. At the last named place he was shot through the
left thigh and was confined to the hospital from September,
1863, until September, 1864, which was the expiration of his
term of enlistment. However, although he had suffered great pain
from an extremely dangerous wound, no sooner did he recover than
on January 1, 1865, he again enlisted, serving in Company K, One
Hundred and Fiftieth Illinois Infantry. With this regiment he
saw more favorable service in Georgia and Tennessee, and he was
always a gallant and true soldier, continuing in the army until
after the close of the war and receiving his final discharge
February 1, 1866. He entered the army as a private and was
promoted on account of efficiency to the rank of first sergeant
and later was made second lieutenant. He has two honorable
discharges from the army, which he holds as valuable mementos of
years of faithful and meritorious service in behalf of the stars
and stripes. After his final discharge Mr. Hillman returned to
Vermilion county and began operating a farm of eighty acres,
which he had acquired previously. After making a number of
improvements he traded this farm for a part of the farm which he
now owns and which includes two hundred and two and one-half
acres of land under a high state of cultivation. He also is the
owner of a comfortable residence in Oakwood and of several other
properties in the township. For the last fifteen years he has
been living retired in the enjoyment of the well earned results
of many years of application.
On October 8, 1867, Mr. Hillman was united in marriage to
Miss
Sarah A. Hilliary, a native of this state, who was born in
Danville township, this county, March 15, 1849. She was a
daughter of George and Sarah O. (Freese) Hilliary, who were of
German descent and were married in Ohio but at an early day
removed to Illinois. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hillman were born four
children: Edward J., of Vermilion county; Bertha A., now living
at home; George F., who received a college education and is
living in Oklahoma; and Mary E., the wife of James A.
Gutteridge,
of Danville, Mrs. Hillman was called from earthly cares February
21, 1898, and on June 1, 1899,
Mr. Hillman was married to Miss Elizabeth
Oakwood, who is a daughter of Samuel and Priscilla
Oakwood and was born in Oakwood township, this county, October
3, 1844. Mr. Hillman was again called upon to mourn the
departure of a loving companion when on March 6, 1909, at the
age of sixty-four years, his faithful wife was summoned to the
unseen world. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church
and always endeavored to discharge her duties according to the
teachings which that church represents.
Mr. Hillman is also a member of the church and for many years
has served upon its board of trustees at Oakwood. Politically he
is identified with the republican party but has not been bound
strictly by its platform, as he is a man of liberal views who is
able to perceive good traits in men who may not entirely agree
with his own ideas. He has never sought office but has served
most acceptably as commissioner of highways and for twelve years
as a member of the school board, and in his various duties as an
officer of the church and as a citizen has always shown an
interest and ability which have made him a valued member of the
community.
History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol. II - By Lottie
E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company - 1911 - pg. 270 |
| |
T. J. HOLLINGSWORTH.
The name of T. J. Hollingsworth appears in the list of Vermilion
county's honored dead. He was for a long period identified with
mercantile interests' in Bismarck and while his enterprise
contributed to his success, his honorable methods also gained
for him the respect and confidence of all with whom he came in
contact. His birth occurred south of Newport in Vermilion
County, Indiana, September 26, 1840. His parents, Hezekiah and
Elizabeth Aldridge) Hollingsworth, were both natives of Ohio and
unto them were born four children, but all are now deceased.
T. J. Hollingsworth was reared in his parents' home,
his youthful days being spent upon the farm, while his early
experiences made him familiar with the best methods of tilling
the soil and caring for the crops. He was only nine teen years
of age when he was first married, Miss Elizabeth
Smith becoming
his wife. She died four years later, leaving two children: Alice, now the wife of
Lincoln Rogers; and Otis, who died when
ten months old. On the 28th of October, 1888, Mr. Hollingsworth
was again married, his second union being with Miss Mary C.
Lowe, who was born in Vermilion County, Indiana, December 8,
1846. Her parents were Richard and Hannah Jane (Moody)
Lowe, who
were natives of Ohio, whence they came to Indiana, where they
lived for some time, and then removed to Vermilion county,
Illinois, where their remaining days were passed. Their family
numbered four children: Mary C., now Mrs. Hollingsworth
Edmond,
a resident of Montana, Isaac, deceased; and P. M. now living in
Bismarck, Illinois.
Mrs. Lowe was one of the first settlers of Danville,
taking up her abode here when there were only two small stores
in the town. She was employed in the home of Dr. Lemon, who was
then the only physician in Danville. Following his second
marriage Mr. Hollingsworth engaged in farming for six years and
then removed to Bismarck, where he turned his attention to
general merchandising, becoming the proprietor of the store
which his widow is now conducting with the assistance of her
brother, Peter Lowe. She also owns a good residence and a brick
store building, which is twenty-six by fifty feet. In addition
to this property she has likewise five lots in the city.
Mr. Hollingsworth manifested good business ability and
keen discernment in the control of his commercial
interests. He was watchful of every indication pointing to
success and his enterprising spirit and persistency of purpose
enabled him to overcome all the difficulties and obstacles in
his path. Moreover, in all of his business dealings he was
honorable and straight forward, and in every relation of life
commanded the good will and trust of those who knew him. He died
August 5, 1908, and was laid to rest in Rose cemetery.
In assuming charge of the business left by her husband,
Mrs. Hollingsworth has displayed excellent ability and executive
force. She holds membership in the Christian church and is a
lady of many admirable qualities, whose friends in this part of
the county are almost as numerous as her acquaintances.
Source: History of Vermilion Co., Ill. - Vol. II - Pub. 1911
- Page - Pages 640 & 641 - Submitted by Mary
Paulius |
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JAMES HOAG AND
SAMUEL MUNNEL are both known to have lived along the
Little Vermilion as early as this time, but little is recorded
of them.
Source: History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol. I - By
Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company - 1911 -
Page 110 |
| |
RALPH B. HOLMES.
Admitted to the bar in 1906, Ralph B. Holmes has since
engaged in practice in Danville, and although one of the younger
representatives of the legal profession here, has made
substantial advancement in his chosen calling and has gained a
position which many an older practitioner may well envy. He was
born in Urbana, Illinois, February 28, 1874. His father, C.
E. Holmes, was a native of Copenhagen, Denmark, and in his
boyhood days came to the United States with his parents, who
settled at Rockford, Illinois, whence they removed to Urbana in
the '60s. C. E. Holmes became proprietor of a hotel
conducting the Doan House successfully for a long
period, but is now living retired, enjoying a rest which he has
truly earned and rightly deserves. His wife, who bore the maiden
name of Marie E. Vanderere, is a native of Urbana.
In the schools of his native city and of Danville
Ralph B. Holmes pursued his early education and afterward
entered the University of Chicago, and then engaged in teaching
in the public schools of Danville, filling the position of
principal for four years. In 1899 he was elected county
superintendent and thus served for seven years, but thinking to
find the practice of law a more congenial and profitable field,
he began studying in the office and under the direction of
Colonel George Buckingham and in 1906 was admitted to the
bar. He began practice in Danville and has devoted his entire
time to his profession, in which connection he is regarded as a
rising young lawyer, whose ability has won him constant
promotion. He possesses an excellent presence, earnest,
dignified manner and marked strength of character, combined with
a ready capacity for hard work, a thorough grasp of the law and
the ability to accurately apply its principles.
There is an interesting military chapter in the life
history of Mr. Holmes. He was a member of Battery
A in which he served as second lieutenant. At the time of the
Spanish-American war he enlisted in Battery A of the First
Illinois Artillery in 1898 and served in Porto Rico and
elsewhere until the close of hostilities. He joined the
organization as second lieutenant and during the war was
promoted to the rank of first lieutenant, while after his return
he was made captain. After leaving the battery he served as
adjutant of the artillery battalion with the rank of captain. He
has been well trained in military tactics and is himself a good
disciplinarian, ever enjoying the respect and confidence of
those who serve under him.
In 1906 Mr. Holmes was married to Miss
Mabel G. Helm, a native of Homer, Illinois, and they have
two children: Jane, born July 6, 1907; and Burnham, born
August 24, 1909. Mr. Holmes is a prominent Mason,
attaining high rank in the Scottish Rite. He also belongs to the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He has always been a resident
of Illinois and is deeply interested in the welfare and progress
of the city in which he makes his home. His record since
starting upon the practice of law has been marked by consecutive
progress and his natural qualifications indicate that he will
win higher advancement in his chosen field.
Source: History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol. II - By
Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company - 1911 -
pg. 291 |
| |
ANDREW HOSCH is
known as one of the successful farmers of Vermilion county
having for nearly fifty years been a resident of this county and
has contributed through the energy and perseverance which he
inherited from worthy ancestors to its development. He was born
in Germany, October 10, 1831, and is a son of John and
Margaret Hosch, who were natives of the fatherland
and came to America about 1860, living with their son until
their death. The mother was called to her repose about four
years after the family settled in Vermilion county. The father
survived for many years and departed this life in 1890.
Andrew Hosch was educated in his native country and
was twenty-nine years of age when he bade his old friends and
associates farewell and went aboard a ship to face his destiny
among strangers. He was brave-hearted and he has never regretted
that he sought under the stars and stripes a liberty and an
opportunity such as cannot be found in old and long settled
countries of Europe. In 1863 Mr. Hosch bought a
farm in the immediate region of Danville, which he has operated
with such ability that today he owns a highly improved farm of
one hundred and ninety acres adjoining the city limits and
provided with a handsome residence and all the facilities that
accord with the most improved farm methods.
In 1864 Mr. Hosch was united in marriage
to Miss Katie Linnie, who was also born in
Germany. This union was blessed by one child, Jacob, now
living in Newell Township, but the mother was taken with a fatal
illness within less than a year after the birth of her son and
her place in the household was left vacant. Mr. Hosch
was a second time married, the lady of his choice being Miss
Mary Koch, a daughter of Matthew and
Katherine (Keinot) Koch, who came to America from
Wittenberg, Germany. The father died in 1875, but the
mother is still living and makes her home with the subject of
our review.
Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs.
Koch, five of whom are now living, in addition to Mrs.
Hosch: William; Edward; Charles;
Christine, now Mrs. Nicholas Dietz, of
Newell township; and Barbara who became the wife of
George Krouse, now deceased. Eight children came to
brighten the household of Mr. and Mrs. Hosch: Andrew,
who married Emus Ost and lives in Danville;
August, who married Mary Jenncks and also
lives in Danville; Annie, now Mrs.
Charles Schlorff, of Newell township; John,
who died November 3, 1894; Katherine, now Mrs.
Frank Saddler, of Villa Grove, Illinois; Frederick,
residing at home; Margaret, the wife of Herman
Manteubel; and Emma, who is living at home. The
children were all reared to habits of industry, of which their
parents were worthy exemplars, and were given the advantages of
a good common-school education.
The members of the family are all affiliated with the
German Methodist church and are intelligent and helpful workers
in anything they undertake. Mr. Hosch has devoted
his attention principally to personal interests rather than to
politics or outside affairs. He has attained unusual success as
a farmer by diligence and close application, although good
judgment has assisted in a very Important degree, as without
this faculty continued advancement in any calling would be
impossible. Mr. Hosch many years ago sought in the
American republic a home and the comforts of life and he has
found them. He is happy in the possession of a competence and in
the evening of a long career, he enjoys the love of his
children, the respect of his acquaintances and the rest he has
so well earned.
Source: History of Vermilion County, Illinois - Vol.
II - By Lottie E. Jones - Chicago - Pioneer Publishing Company -
1911 - pg. 766 - Contributed by Mary Paulius |
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