Lee County Archives – Page 3 of 12

Biography of Isaac Edwards (1828–1890)

Isaac Edwards (1828–1890) was a prominent figure in Amboy, Lee County, Illinois, known for his substantial contributions to the community and his successful business ventures. Born in Somersetshire, England, he immigrated to the United States in 1850 with limited means. Edwards worked on the construction of several railroads before settling in Amboy in 1853, where he established a thriving livery business and acquired significant property, including 580 acres of farmland. A dedicated Republican, Edwards served as County Treasurer, Sheriff of Lee County, and Mayor of Amboy. He married Elizabeth Saul in 1853, and they had eight children, four of whom survived to adulthood.

Biography of Ebenezer H. Johnson (1810-1885)

Ebenezer H. Johnson (1810–1885) was a significant pioneer of Palmyra Township, Illinois, and played a prominent role in the early development of Lee County. Born in Bainbridge, Chenango County, New York, he moved to Illinois in 1838, shortly after marrying Sarah Johnson. A successful farmer and influential community member, Johnson owned substantial property and was actively involved in local politics, serving as Township Supervisor and holding various other offices. A devoted Republican and Methodist, he and Sarah had seven children, five of whom survived into adulthood. Johnson’s life is deeply intertwined with the history and growth of his township. Ebenezer … Read more

Biography of Stanwood Griffith of Ashton Township

Stanwood Griffith (b. 1834) was a prominent figure in Ashton Township, Illinois, serving as Supervisor and engaging in various successful business ventures. Born in New Lisbon, Ohio, to Oliver and Mary Griffith, he initially pursued farming before moving to Illinois in 1864. In Ashton Township, he transitioned into the drug, hardware, and lumber businesses, eventually co-founding Griffith & Sons with his children. Griffith was also a dedicated public servant, holding roles such as Justice of the Peace and School Director. He married Elizabeth Charters in 1858, and together they had seven children. Griffith was active in the Presbyterian Church and the Masonic fraternity.

Biography of William S. Straw of Palmyra Township

William S. Straw, born in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, was a prominent farmer in Palmyra Township, Illinois, where he managed a highly regarded 224-acre farm on sections 19 and 20. Raised in Seward Township, Winnebago County, Illinois, he was the son of N. S. Straw, a Pennsylvania native from a family with deep American roots dating back to the Colonial era. William married Carrie E. Finch, a McHenry County native and Wheaton College graduate. The couple had three children, two of whom, Verne S. and Carl C., remained at home. Straw was active in his community and aligned with the Democratic Party.

Biography of Dr. John B. Felker (1838–1888)

Dr. John B. Felker (1838–1888) was a well-respected physician in Amboy, Illinois, known for his medical expertise and community involvement. Born in Maryland, Felker moved to Amboy after his marriage to Eliza Jane Miller in 1867. Throughout his career, he gained widespread esteem for his ability to alleviate suffering and his genial personality. Dr. Felker was active in local politics, serving as Alderman, Mayor, and a state legislator. He was also a member of several medical associations. Dr. Felker passed away in May 1888, leaving behind his wife and three surviving children.

Biography of Hon. John Dawson Crabtree of Dixon

Hon. John Dawson Crabtree, born November 19, 1837, in Nottingham, England, was a distinguished figure in Illinois as a Civil War veteran, lawyer, and judge. After emigrating to the U.S. in 1848, Crabtree settled in Dixon, Illinois, and later joined the Union Army in 1861, earning the rank of Major. Post-war, he pursued law, becoming County Judge in 1869 and later Circuit Judge in 1888. A staunch Republican, he briefly served as a State Senator before focusing on his judicial career. Crabtree was known for his legal acumen, fairness, and dedication to public service. He was married twice, fathering seven children.

Biography of Benjamin F. Shaw of Dixon

Benjamin F. Shaw, born on March 31, 1831, in Waverly, New York, was a prominent editor and influential figure in Lee County, Illinois. As the editor and proprietor of the *Dixon Telegraph*, Shaw played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and advocating for the Republican Party. He began his career in printing in Rock Island before acquiring the *Dixon Telegraph* in 1851. Shaw was also active in politics, serving as Clerk and Recorder of the Lee County Circuit Court and as State Canal Commissioner. His efforts were instrumental in advancing various civic projects, including the Hennepin Canal and advocating for Dixon’s development.

Biography of William Landau of Lee Center Township

William Landau, born on January 4, 1836, in northern Germany, was a successful farmer in Lee Center Township, Illinois. After emigrating to the United States at age 25, he initially worked as a laborer before purchasing his own farm. Over two decades, he expanded his holdings to 716.5 acres, focusing on farming and stock-raising. Landau married Martha E. Moller in 1861, and together they had eleven children. A dedicated Republican and member of the Reformed Church, Landau was well-regarded in his community for his industriousness and contributions to local agriculture.

Biography of John W. Wingert of Nachusa Township

John W. Wingert, born on July 18, 1831, in Greencastle, Pennsylvania, was a Civil War veteran and prominent farmer in Nachusa Township, Lee County, Illinois. In 1852, he moved to Illinois with his family, and in 1877, he acquired a 200-acre farm along Franklin Creek, where he raised livestock and cultivated the land. Wingert enlisted in the 75th Illinois Infantry in 1862, participating in significant battles such as Perryville and Stone River. He married Hannah M. Hittle in 1869, and together they raised six children. Wingert was an active member of the Methodist Church and the G.A.R.

Biography of Charles Trainer of Ashton Township

Charles Trainer, born on July 4, 1839, in Lower Canada, was a Civil War veteran who later became a successful farmer in Ashton Township, Lee County, Illinois. The son of Irish immigrants John Trainer and Ann Hagan, Charles enlisted in the 60th New York Infantry in 1861, serving in key battles like Gettysburg and during Sherman’s “March to the Sea.” After the war, he settled in Illinois, where he farmed 240 acres of land. Married to Emily L. Plantz, they had five children. Trainer was active in local politics and a respected member of the G.A.R. (Grand Army of the Republic).

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