Mr. Adams was a native of Lawrence County, this State, where his eyes first opened to the light November, 1, 1833. His mother, Marty (Cheneworth) Adams died when the lad was about six years old and his father, Joseph Adams, some eight years later. He received but a common-school education, his privileges being somewhat limited, but endeavored to keep well informed regarding the topics which are of general importance and particularly those relating to the Government and the line of work with which he was connected.

He came to Peoria County in 1852, worked by the month for several years, and then bought the farm upon which his widow now resides. His first purchase was in the spring of 1860, the amount eighty acres, and the price $2,000. He afterward bought an additional eighty, the entire amount being in a practically unimproved condition when he obtained it. He brought it to an excellent condition, being able when called hence to leave his family in the possession of a comfortable and remunerative estate.

Mr. Adams was elected School Director and earnestly endeavored to advance the cause of education, discharge well the duties of his position and show himself the friend of pupils and patrons as well as a good counselor to the teacher. In politics he was a stanch Republican.

The good woman who for more than twenty years was a faithful helpmate and companion to our subject was formerly known as Miss Anna Macy. She was born in Union County, Ind., August 25, 1836, to Thomas and Sarah (Petty) Macy, with whom, when seventeen years old, she came to Peoria County, settling in Elmwood Township. There her marriage was celebrated December 24, 1863. She is the mother of four children, the living being Henry, Lulu and Joseph. Adelbert, the firstborn, is deceased. She is an active member of society, looked up to for her Christian character, being a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She resides upon the land where almost her entire wedded life was spent, exhibiting good judgment in the management of the business affairs connected with the estate.

The parents of Mrs. Adams were natives of North Carolina, but died in this county, the one in Elmwood and the other in Brimfield Township. They had eight children, of whom the following survive: David, now living in Indiana; Matilda, in Brimfield Township, this county; Micajah, in Elmwood Township; Emeline, wife of James Paddock, of Knox County, and the widow of our subject.

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