John Reed

John Reed was born in Northumberland, England, February 28th, 1806. He left England, April 8th, 1844, and arrived in Peoria June 22nd, with little money in his possession. He lived in Peoria five years, and, by hard work and carefulness, he laid by some money. He bought two lots, on which he made a home. But finally, wishing to live a farmer’s life, he sold out in Peoria and bought a farm in Rosefield township, on which he settled and is still living there. He was married, August 14th, 1848, to Mrs. Mary Meek, by widow of John Meek, who died in Vandalia, Illinois in 1844, by whom he had no children.

Mrs. Reed raised eleven children by her former husband and is to be praised for her efforts to instruct them properly. Mr. and Mrs. Reed are a pleasant old couple, and are going down the path of life together. Success go with them. (page 81)