James Sneed, born January 15, 1827, in Pulaski County, Kentucky, was a notable figure in Lee County, Illinois. He moved to Indiana with his family to escape slavery and eventually settled in Lee County in 1871 after brief periods in Kansas and Carroll County. Sneed owned and operated a 237-acre farm in Palmyra Township, engaging in both general farming and stock trading. He married Sarah F. Toliver of Indiana, and they had seven children, five of whom survived. Sneed held various public offices, including County Collector and Justice of the Peace, and was an active member of the Republican Party.
James Sneed, whose life story now captures our interest, stands as a notable figure in Lee County. Over the years, he has been a witness to remarkable transformations and progress within the state and has amassed a considerable fortune for himself. Currently, he’s actively involved in general farming across sections 20 and 29 of Palmyra Township. Here, he presides over a sprawling estate spanning two hundred and thirty-seven acres, where he not only engages in farming but also delves into the stock trade. Sneed has made this farm his domain since 1871, having first set foot in the State in 1854. His journey briefly took him to Morris County, Kansas, followed by a stint in Carroll County, where he stayed for four years before settling permanently on his current estate.
James Sneed’s journey began in Pulaski County, Kentucky, near Somerset, on January 15, 1827, born to Charles and Elizabeth (Dalton) Sneed. In his early years, James, alongside his family, relocated to Indiana. The move was primarily motivated by the family’s aversion to slavery, a prevalent practice south of “Mason and Dixon’s line,” prompting them to seek a new life in the North. Initially setting down roots in Washington County, Indiana, as farmers, the family later experienced a brief period in Jackson County before ultimately returning to Washington County, where both parents lived out their final years. Charles Sneed passed away at around seventy, and Elizabeth Sneed at about sixty years of age. Kentucky was their birthplace and the backdrop of their early life and marriage. Their union produced thirteen children, with four sons and one daughter still living, James being the lone family member to make Illinois his home.
Raised in Washington County, Indiana, James reached adulthood there before embarking on his journey to Lee County. It was in this township that he married Sarah F. Toliver, a Lawrence County, Indiana native. Sarah’s early life saw a move to Richland County, Indiana, and the subsequent loss of her mother. Raised by her grandparents in this township, Sarah received her education here, leveraging her studious nature to gain a robust education despite limited opportunities. Sarah proved to be a devoted and supportive partner to James, well-regarded for her intellect and commendable qualities. Sadly, she passed away on August 14, 1891.
The union of James and Sarah Sneed was blessed with seven children, five of whom are living: Francis M., who married Alice Schultz of Dixon; Alice M., the wife of E. H. Hughs, an Ogle County farmer; James B., who farms and lives at home; and William F. and Minnie L., who also remain at home. Throughout his life, James Sneed has served in various township and county roles, including County Collector, and is currently fulfilling the duties of Justice of the Peace, much to the satisfaction of his community. Politically, he aligns with the Republican Party, contributing to and influencing the local political landscape.