Portrait and biographical record of Lee County Archives

Biography of Jonathan Depuy (1816-1891)

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Jonathan Depuy, born on October 2, 1816, in Delaware, became one of the early settlers of Lee County, Illinois, after moving there in 1844. He was a dedicated farmer who contributed significantly to the development of Nachusa Township, where he improved two farms. Depuy first married Sallie A. Klintop in 1837, with whom he had eight children. After her death in 1866, he married Tena Bauman in 1867. Jonathan Depuy passed away on June 16, 1891, leaving behind a respected legacy and a productive estate in Nachusa Township. His widow, Tena, continued to reside on their 80-acre farm.

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Biography of Richard S. Farrand of Dixon

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Richard S. Farrand, born on October 1, 1852, in St. Joseph Township, Indiana, became a prominent figure in Lee County, Illinois, through his dedication to law and public service. After leaving home at eleven, Farrand supported himself and pursued an education, eventually moving to Lee County at age fifteen. He taught school before becoming Deputy Sheriff in 1877, and later studied law under A. C. Bardwell, gaining admission to the bar in 1879. Elected County Judge in 1882, Farrand served multiple terms and was also a former Mayor of Dixon. He married C. J. Marsh in 1873, and they had two sons, one of whom, Ernest W., survived to adulthood.

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Biography of George W. Hulbert of Bradford Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

George W. Hulbert, born January 24, 1836, in Bradford County, Pennsylvania, moved to Lee County, Illinois, at the age of six with his parents, Elias and Hannah Hulbert. He grew up in Bradford Township, where he pursued farming and became an active community member. In 1859, he married Loraine L. Evitts, with whom he had three children. George held several local offices, including Assessor and Collector, and played a key role in establishing the Bradford Mutual Insurance Company. After his death on January 5, 1888, Loraine managed the family’s 120-acre farm, demonstrating her capability and resilience.

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Biography of Hugh Fitzpatrick of May Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Hugh Fitzpatrick, born in April 1823 in County Cavan, Ireland, emigrated to the United States where he became a prominent farmer and civic leader in May Township, Lee County, Illinois. After working on railway construction projects in New York and Pennsylvania, Fitzpatrick settled in Lee County in 1857, eventually amassing substantial farmland. He married Ann DeLacy, also from County Cavan, in 1850. Despite the loss of their two children, the couple became integral members of their community, with Hugh serving over ten years on the Lee County Board of Supervisors. He was a devout Roman Catholic.

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Biography of Christian B. Classen of South Dixon Township

Lee County, Whiteside County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Christian B. Classen, born October 4, 1815, in Varel, Oldenburg, Germany, was the son of Claus and Eliza (Varner) Classen. After losing his parents early in life, Christian married Sophia Christians, also of Oldenburg, and the couple emigrated to the United States in 1852. They settled in Illinois, first in Sugar Grove and later in Whiteside County, before purchasing a farm in South Dixon Township in 1869. Despite the loss of their three children, Christian and Sophia became respected members of their community, known for their strong Lutheran faith and successful farming endeavors.

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Biography of Isaac Edwards (1828–1890)

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of Ebenezer H. Johnson (1810-1885)

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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

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Biography of Stanwood Griffith of Ashton Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of William S. Straw of Palmyra Township

Lee County, McHenry County, Winnebago County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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

Lee County, Franklin County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of Hon. John Dawson Crabtree of Dixon

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of Benjamin F. Shaw of Dixon

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of William Landau of Lee Center Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of John W. Wingert of Nachusa Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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.

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Biography of Charles Trainer of Ashton Township

Lee County, Ogle County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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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Biography of Henry Uhl of South Dixon Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Henry Uhl was a well-informed and progressive man in Lee County, Illinois, who built a comfortable fortune through industry and enterprise. Born on November 19, 1827, in Allegany County, Maryland, he moved to Illinois in 1852, where he cultivated and improved a 260-acre farm in South Dixon Township. In 1882, he relocated to Dixon, residing in a good home on Hennepin Avenue. His father, Peter Uhl, born in 1794, moved the family to Illinois in 1852. Henry married Susan Wilhelm from Somerset County, Pennsylvania. Active in politics as a staunch Republican, he held numerous local offices and was dedicated to the community’s growth and welfare.

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Biography of Sardias Vosburgh of Willow Creek Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Sardias Vosburgh, born on July 8, 1836, in Lackawanna Township, Pennsylvania, is a key figure in Willow Creek Township, Illinois. He moved to Illinois in 1855, initially farming in DeKalb County before purchasing and improving a 120-acre farm in Willow Creek Township. His farm, now 240 acres, is one of the finest in the area. Married to Ellen Atherton in 1864, they have three children. Vosburgh has played a significant role in local governance, serving multiple terms as Supervisor and Assessor, and is a staunch Republican, highly regarded for his contributions to the community’s development.

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Biography of Thomas Clayton of Nelson Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Thomas Clayton, born on April 19, 1814, in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, was a prominent farmer and community leader in Nelson Township, Illinois. Moving to Illinois in 1856, he initially rented land before purchasing a 200-acre farm in 1859. Known for his contributions to the township’s development, Clayton also served as Supervisor and participated in public life. He married Mary Wright, with whom he had six children. After his death in 1885, Mary and their surviving son, Owen L. Clayton, continued to manage the farm. Thomas was an active member of the Lutheran Church and a respected figure in his community.

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Biography of Barren De F. Holly of Palmyra Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Barren De F. Holly, born June 22, 1849, in Palmyra Township, Lee County, Illinois, was a significant figure in the local dairy and farming community. He operated a 200-acre farm, maintaining a herd of forty cows and engaging in general farming and stock-raising. Barren was the son of James N. Holly, an early settler who contributed greatly to the development of the area. James, originally from Ontario, Canada, moved to Illinois and transformed the land into a productive farm. Barren married Mary Catherine Carpenter, and they had one surviving daughter, Belle A. He was active in local politics and served as Township Collector.

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Biography of Hon. William Ellery Ives of Amboy

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Hon. William Ellery Ives, born on May 24, 1821, in Ellery, New York, was a pioneering lawyer and influential figure in Amboy, Illinois. Moving to Illinois in his youth, he pursued a legal career, graduating from National Law School in 1852 and becoming Amboy’s first attorney in 1854. Ives was instrumental in founding the town’s first newspaper and significantly contributed to its development. He married Susan R. Ryon in 1841, and they had five children. A dedicated Republican, he served as Mayor of Amboy and States Attorney, and was active in the Baptist Church and Freemasonry.

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Biography of Levi Rafensperger of Franklin Grove

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Levi Rafensperger, born on April 4, 1818, in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, was a notable pioneer farmer in Lee County, Illinois. In 1851, he moved to Illinois, purchasing 90 acres near Nachusa, later expanding his farm by 160 acres. Originally a shoemaker, Levi transitioned to farming at age 27. He retired in 1883, settling in Franklin Grove. Married to Sarah Christman, the couple had seven children. Levi was a respected community member, known for his industriousness and integrity, and was active in the German Baptist Church. He typically supported the Republican party.

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Biography of George L. Klostermann of Palmyra Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

George L. Klostermann, born on March 29, 1845, in Java, Germany, was a prosperous farmer in Palmyra Township, Illinois. His father, Ernest F. Klostermann, emigrated from Saxony, Germany, in 1845, overcoming many hardships to establish the family in Lee County. George married Rebecca Lamcken, and they had five surviving children. Active in the Lutheran Church and a Prohibitionist in politics, George was known for his well-maintained 160-acre farm. The Klostermann family’s legacy reflects the industrious and resilient spirit of early settlers in the region.

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Biography of Henry Miller of Sterling

Lee County, Cass County, Whiteside County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Henry Miller, born on November 13, 1822, in Oldenburg, Germany, was a prominent example of German-American success. Emigrating with his family to the United States in 1837, they initially settled in Cass County, Illinois. After his father’s death in 1838, Henry moved to Palmyra Township, where he and his brothers transformed raw prairie into a prosperous 270-acre farm. Henry married Fredricka A. Klostermann, also from Oldenburg, and they had nine children. Retired in Sterling, Illinois, Henry and his wife were active members of the Lutheran Church and contributed significantly to their community.

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Biography of Thomas Dolan of Dixon

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

Thomas Dolan, born on November 14, 1827, in County Longford, Ireland, was a successful merchant tailor in Dixon, Illinois. He immigrated to the United States in 1841, initially settling in Lee County. Overcoming early hardships, including a severe leg injury, Dolan learned the tailor’s trade and worked in various locations, including Joliet, Chicago, and Polo, Illinois. In 1871, he permanently established his tailoring business in Dixon. He married Rose Crawford, and they had sixteen children, ten of whom survived. Active in the Roman Catholic Church and the Democratic Party, Dolan also served as a City Alderman in Dixon, contributing significantly to local developments such as the city waterworks and cemetery. He passed away, remembered for his industrious and community-focused life.

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Biography of David Murray of Nelson Township

Lee County / Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

David Murray, born December 5, 1838, in Ayrshire, Scotland, was a respected farmer and stock-raiser in Nelson Township, Illinois. Son of Gilbert and Jennett (Mulrick) Murray, David emigrated to the United States with his family in 1855, settling initially in Connecticut. He moved to Illinois in 1858, eventually owning two well-appointed farms: 160 acres in Nelson Township and 120 acres in Harmon Township. He married Helen Burnham, a New Hampshire native, and they had two children, Frank B. and Hattie F. A dedicated Presbyterian, David was active in his community, supporting the Lutheran Church and the Republican Party. He passed away, leaving a legacy of hard work and community service.

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Portrait and biographical record of Lee County

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