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FREDERICK B. BLANCHARD. The career
of this gentleman, now a stock-shipper and dealer in grain at Princeville, has
been one of undeviating integrity and unwearying industry. His labors have been
rewarded by a fair share of this world's goods, among his possessions being two
residences in the town which is now his home. He is of Southern ancestry, his
grandparents having been born in Virginia and his parents in North Carolina.
Grandfather Blanchard, whose given name was Thomas,
tilled the soil in North Carolina for some time, then journeyed to Logan County,
Ky., on foot with pack horses, passing the remnant of his days there. He became
wealthy, owning a large plantation. His son, William P., father of our subject,
was six years old when taken to Kentucky where he grew to maturity and engaged
in farming. He married Mary Barham, daughter of the Rev. Daniel Barham, who
removed from Virginia to North Carolina and later to the Blue Grass State. He
subsequently made an early settlement in Coles County, this State, dying there
at a goodly age. He was a minister of the Baptist Church.
The father of our subject was opposed to slavery and so
in 1819 he removed from Kentucky to Illinois, locating in Lawrence County. He
bought Government land, farming there until 1836, when he changed his location
to Peoria County. Early in the spring he purchased one hundred and sixty acres
of land and building a log house brought his family hither in the summer. He was
a prosperous farmer, was Justice of the Peace, and the organizing of Princeville
Township, with the first election, was held at his house. He finally retired to
Princeville, where he died in 1868, at the age of seventy-one years. His wife
also died in this place. He was a consistent member of the Christian Church. He
and his wife had a large family whose record is as follows: Louise, Elizabeth
and Philena, died in Princeville; William K. and Thomas W. in Oregon, and James
C. in Washington; Mary A. is also deceased, and Daniel H., who lived to be but
six years old; John L., Mason M., and Delilah live in Princeville, the latter
being an inmate of the household of our subject; Henry C. is mining near Joplin,
Jasper County, Mo.; and Jemima, the widow of Benjamin Merritt, lives in Galva,
this State.
The subject of this notice was born near Lawrenceville,
Ill., April 3, 1835, and was brought to Peoria County the next year. He was
reared on a farm, where he early assisted to break prairie and in other ways add
to the worth of the parental estate. His limited educational privileges were
enjoyed under the subscription plan, by which schools were kept up in the early
days. When twenty years old he purchased sixty acres of land adjoining his
father's farm, operating it in connection with work on the homestead until 1866.
He then located in Princeville and with his brother, Mason M., opened a general
store which they carried on a year. Our subject then bought out his brother and
continued the business alone, pursuing a successful mercantile career until
1883. He then sold out to devote his entire attention to the grain and stock
business, in which he had engaged some years before. In 1871 he built an
elevator and in 1884 began buying and shipping stock also. These enterprises he
is still successfully prosecuting.
Mr. Blanchard worked hard to secure the railroads
through Princeville, the accomplishment of his purpose costing him much money as
well as personal effort. Time has shown that his belief that the interests of
the town would be much advanced was well founded. He was a member of the first
Council in this place and is now serving acceptably as School Director. His
strong adherence is given to the Republican party, his first Presidential ballot
having been cast for Gen. John C. Fremont. In religion he adheres to the
principles promulgated in the Christian Church.
An important step in the life of our subject occurred
in Princeville, March 12, 1857, when he became the husband of Miss Amy Reeves.
This lady was born in Stark County, October 30, 1838, but reared and educated in
Princeville. She is well fitted to discharge the duties which devolve upon her
as wife and mother, while as a member of society she is highly regarded for her
pleasing social qualities and kindly nature. The family of Mr. and Mrs.
Blanchard consists of five living children, viz.: Ettie M., Hattie, William K.,
Lucius and Lois. Ettie was graduated from the Normal School at Valparaiso, Ind.,
and became the wife of A. D. Edwards, Supervisor of Princeville Township and a
merchant in Monica; Hattie is the wife of Leroy Wear, of Princeville Township,
and prior to her marriage was a school teacher. The other children are at home.
The parents have lost three children: Ellena, Matilda and Freddie.
The father of Mrs. Blanchard was Jacob Reeves, a native
of New York, who became a resident of Ohio when young. He was married near
Cleveland to Hannah M. Scofield, likewise a native of the Empire State, but
reared in Ohio. About 1837 this couple removed to Stark County, Ill., settling
in the spoon of the Spoon River, where Mr. Reeves followed farming and his trade
of a mason until his death in 1846. His widow supported and wisely reared her
family, removing to Princeville the year after her husband's death, and dying
here under the roof of our subject, in 1888, at the age of seventy-nine years.
She was a consistent member of the Christian Church. Mrs. Blanchard is the sixth
of the eight children which comprised the family. Of these James died in Peoria
when a young man; John lives in Abilene, Kan.; Mrs. Jane Cook, in Lyons County,
Kan.; Mrs. Harriet Miller, in Saline County, Neb.; Benjamin, in Pottawatomie
County, Kan.; Jacob died when an infant; and Mrs. Mary Blanchard lives in Koloka,
Washington County, Kan.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
495-496, submitted by Gaile Thomas)
FRED L.
BLOCK. The opinion, uniformly expressed wherever Fred L. Block was known,
was that he was "a good citizen and a good man." What higher tribute could be
paid to an individual? He was, moreover, a successful merchant—one of the
partners of the largest dry-goods establishment of Peoria, but while his
intelligently directed activity and enterprise brought him success the
attainment of wealth was never the sole aim and end of his life. He rejoiced in
the opportunity that it gave him to aid his fellowmen and there are few who have
loved humanity in a greater or more helpful degree than did he. The memory that
he leaves behind is one that is cherished by all who knew him.
Mr. Block was born in Germany, October 31, 1855, and the first sixteen
years of his life were spent in his native land, largely in the acquirement of
an education. Other members of the family had previously come to America and
favorable reports concerning the opportunities of the new world led the youth of
sixteen to sever the ties that bound him to his native country and seek a home
in the new world. He made his way direct to Pekin, Illinois, where he was
employed in his brother's store that constituted the nucleus of the present
Schipper & Block establishment of Peoria. For seven years he was there employed
and then came to this city where he joined with his brother and John F.
Schipper, now deceased, in organizing the firm of Schipper & Block and founding
the present enterprise. The first store was located on Adams street and the
growth of the business is indicated by the fact that three times the firm
enlarged the building, but finally the quarters became too small and a removal
was made to the old Anderson block where business was continued for a number of
years. At length, however, the continued growth of trade necessitated still more
commodious quarters, which were secured in the Woolner building, but even this
proved too small for constantly developing business and about 1903 the company
decided to erect a new building, resulting in the immense eight-story structure
that now stands at the corner of Adams and Fulton streets, a monument to the
business industry and sagacity of the members of the firm, prominent among whom
was Fred L. Block. One of the local papers writing of him said: "During all of
his business career Mr. Block displayed the keenest business sagacity and
foresight. He was recognized as one of the best buyers in the country. In the
eastern markets he had the name of being one of the best business men in the
country. Older business men found in this young business man the elements of the
experienced man of affairs. No detail was too small for his attention, but he
did not allow himself to be carried away by details, and was ever alert to the
possibilities of a good business move. Time after time older men found
themselves outwitted by his far-seeing instinct. For years he has been
considered the leading business man of Peoria and he was looked up to in the
mercantile world of Peoria as possibly no other man in Peoria has been in many
years. His keen judgment was called in by the business men in affairs of moment
to the city and he planned many things which have resulted in lasting benefit to
the city and the community in general."
Mr. Block was twice married. He first wedded Miss Dena Schneider, who was
born at the old family homestead of her parents at No. 114 Fifth street, Peoria,
August 25, 1858. She practically spent her entire life in this city, pursuing
her education in the public schools and also spending several years in
completing a course in German in a local private school. On the 11th of May,
1882, she became the wife of Fred L. Block and they became the parents of five
children, Hajo H., Carl C., Anna C., Agnes S. and Harriet F. Mrs. Block was an
active member of the First Congregational church and was not only deeply
interested in the church work but also assisted helpfully and generously in the
work of various clubs and societies whose mission is to do good and assist
mankind. Her death was the occasion of deep regret to a wide circle of friends
as well as to her immediate family. On the 9th of May, 1905, Mr. Block was
married to Miss Emma Schneider, a sister of his first wife and a daughter of C.
J. and Christina Schneider, the former at one time a well known and prominent
pioneer merchant of Peoria. Mr. and Mrs. Block were traveling in the east when
he met a tragic death, being killed in a railroad wreck at Lansingburg, near
Troy, New York, when he and his wife were on their way homeward after a trip in
Maine and New Hampshire. They were sitting in the rear end of the parlor car
when a heavy train crashed into them, telescoping the car and bringing death to
Mr. Block, while his wife, who was sitting across the aisle, conversing with
him, was seriously injured. One of the local papers said: "The news of no death
since the message concerning the passing of President McKinley has caused such
uniform and profound sorrow in Peoria as did that of Fred L. Block." Another
paper wrote: "In the death of Fred L. Block a pillar of strength in the local
business world is shattered. Peoria and central Illinois is appalled at the
horrible news which came from Troy, New York, the scene of the railroad accident
where Mr. Block met his death. His passing as the result of a period of illness
would have shocked the community because of his prominence in the business
world, his standing as a citizen in the community and his genialty of nature
which made him a favorite with every acquaintance. Everyone who knew him was his
friend. But the death of such a citizen, violent as it was, adds to the horror
of the affair and brings grief to the entire city which pauses to pay a silent
tribute of respect and honor to him."
Mr. Block was widely known as one who loved his fellowmen and age and
station in life mattered not to him if an individual was worthy of respect and
regard. The children loved him no less than those of his own years and his many
friends found him ever a hospitable host whose cheer and kindly greeting were
genuine and cordial. He enjoyed outdoor life and nature in its various forms and
was a lover of art, travel and music. Peoria never had a more loyal citizen or
more ardent supporter of the city's enterprises. His faith in her future was
evidenced in his works. At his death the local press united in paying tribute to
his memory. One of the local papers wrote: "The death of such a man as Fred L.
Block cannot be regarded as anything less than a civic calamity. There was
hardly anything projected that would lead to the betterment and the uplift of
the city in which Mr. Block did not have a hand. For nearly all the years of his
life he had been a very busy man but he found time outside of his immense and
growing business to take part in all schemes that were intended to make Peoria
not only a greater but a better city. He was a man who was broad in his views
and who believed in allowing the largest individual liberty of action so long as
that liberty did not conflict with the rights of others. He was a Christian
gentleman in the broadest sense of the term. Not Puritanic, not believing that
this world was a world of gloom in which he was best prepared for the hereafter
who was the least satisfied with the present life. He had strong opinions of his
own on almost every subject, but this did not prevent him from respecting the
conscientious convictions of others who differed from him. He was a liberal but
not ostentatious contributor to the charities of all kinds. And he was in every
respect a perfectly honest man. Fred Block would not wrong a man out of a dollar
even if his failure to do this should have involved the loss of hundreds. It is
lamentable that such a man—one whom Peoria loved and respected—should have lost
his life as he did, just as he was on the eve of returning to the city where he
had so long made his home, which he had helped to build up, where his affections
and his interests centered. It was a dark day for Peoria when he met with that
fatal accident. Above all it was a sad day to those who were privileged to be
his intimates—to society and business associates who had so known, honored and
loved him. To his family the loss is simply irreparable because Mr. Block was
above everything else a family man—a home man. To his children he was at the
same time guide, counselor and friend. The death of no man of recent years has
been more severely felt than was the passing away of Mr. Block, in the maturity
of an intellect that made its impress on every one with whom he was in any way
connected. He went from us just as he had every reason to hope that the rest
that had never come to him in all his busy life was coming, when the fruition of
his hopes and the object of all his aspirations was near, to all human
appearance. Such a man as Mr. Block was entitled to expect many years of
enjoyment, to that enjoyment that comes after the summer of life is spent and
the autumn draws near. But the ways of Providence are past finding out." In his
funeral sermon Dr. Faville said: "He had won a place of honor and faith and hope
and love among us. He was a princely man with great possibilities ahead. He
lived more than a half century; he wrought out a character in which strength and
beauty and sympathy is equalled but by the few. * * * Fred Block had a strong
will, keen mind, a warm heart; he was a man of balanced judgment, of unflagging
enthusiasm, of unswerving faith. But the secret of his life was good-will;
good-will to God; good-will to man. Religion was with him a life, nothing of
religious cant or hypocrisy or hysteria. He was a business man in his Christian
life as well as a Christian in his business life. Nor did he leave out the
world. He loved literature, music, travel, all that is noble and beautiful in
the world. He loved business not only because he succeeded; he believed men are
not here to make money but that money is here to make men. He loved his
fatherland, he loved his adopted land, he loved his city. He put himself into
this world as God's world. But beyond these he loved his fellowmen. He was a
courteous, conscientious employer. You who come from the 'White Store' as
mourners today knew him not only as the merchant prince but as the friendly,
kindly man. He loved the social circle—always its life and its joy. And how he
loved the home. As son, brother, husband and father he came nearer to the ideal
than almost any man that I have known.
(Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages
860-865, submitted by Janine Crandell)
CARL C.
BLOCK. Carl Christian Block, secretary of
Schipper & Block, proprietors of the Big White Store, the leading department
store of Peoria, is a native of this city and a son of Fred Block, who is
mentioned on another page of this work. His mother, Dena (Schneider) Block,
reared their family of five children, two sons and three daughters, in whom she
instilled high ideals and ambitions. She was keenly interested in their moral
and mental growth, studying the requirements of each and carefully and tenderly
nursing them through childhood and youth, and encouraging them in the pursuit of
the study of music, languages and arts.
Carl Christian Block was a pupil in the grammar schools of Peoria and the
Bradley Polytechnic Institute of this city, after which he studied in the
Garnier Institute of Friedrichsdors in Taunus, Germany. Following his return to
America he continued his education in the University of Pennsylvania. While in
college he took an active part in athletics, was captain of the water polo team
and a member of the intercollegiate championship swimming team. He played
football, rowed, fenced, boxed and wrestled, and also belonged to the Mask and
Wig Club, a college theatrical society. He had large responsibilities thrust
upon him in young manhood by the death of his father and assumed these in
preference to a life of less activity and effort. Since 1906 he has been
secretary of Schipper & Block, incorporated. His early business training was
with this house and with John Wanamaker, of Philadelphia. He made a careful
study of the best establishments of the kind throughout the country and gained
comprehensive knowledge of the most approved and progressive business methods in
vogue in connection with the conduct of department stores. His enterprise,
executive ability and sound judgment have been features in the success of the
Peoria house.
Mr. Block has always followed closely the practice of investing in local
enterprises to help build up Peoria institutions. Moreover, he had great faith
in the part that Pacific coast timber would some day play in supplying the
world's lumber and therefore acquired large areas of merchantable timber in
Oregon and British Columbia. He is cooperating in many movements that have
resulted beneficially to Peoria and has been especially active in raising money
for the public enterprises, including the New Hotel and Implement Show. He is
president of the Retail Merchants Transportation Association and a director of
the Retail Merchants Association, and in those connections has done much to
further local trade interests.
In Decatur, Illinois, on the 15th of October, 1908, Carl Christian Block
was married to Miss Jeannette Avery Powers, a daughter of George Wescott and
Hadessa (Bowers) Powers. Mr. Powers' mother was a Giles and her mother an Avery,
while Mrs. Powers' mother belonged to the Van Dorn family. Mrs. Carl Block is a
gifted violin virtuoso. She studied for several years in New York and afterward
spent one year in Paris and three years in Berlin, with the world's greatest
masters, Markesse Geloso and the great Joseph Joachim. It was while she was
studying in Berlin that Mr. and Mrs. Block met. She has given concert
performances not only throughout this country but in Europe as well. The Boston
Herald said of her: "Miss Powers displayed perfect command of her instrument and
has a tone rarely beautiful." Throughout the country her press notices were most
favorable and we append some indicative of her superior genius: "In the evening
Miss Jeannette Powers, a scholarly violiniste, was quite the popular soloist,
and carried off the honors gracefully. She has something few feminine soloists
have, and that is tone. Her instrument seems possessed of a heart and soul. In
the afternoon she gave a Ries Solo Adagio and Moto Perpetium with spirit and
feeling."—-Minneapolis Tribune. "Miss Jeannette Powers scored a triumph in the
two movements from Mendelssohn's Concerto—the Andante being interpreted with
deep feeling and the Allegro marked by her superb mastery of technique as well
as temperamental qualities."—Washington Post. "As a violiniste who possesses a
big, round tone, clean technique and vivacious temperament, Miss Jeannette
Powers deserves unstinted praise for her violin work. The young artist was
forced to respond to two encores."—Willy Jaffe, of the Sentinel. "The violin
solo of Miss Powers was rarely beautiful in all that makes the art of the violin
virtuoso. She instantly captured her hearers and was required to give two
encores. Portland has not recently heard such command of the violin." —Arthur
Green in the Morning Oregonian. "Miss Powers makes a dainty stage picture and
plays with a breadth of tone, technic and musical intelligence that makes her
work of great interest."—Frank Colby in the Los Angeles Express. "Miss Jeannette
Powers is the best violiniste Sousa has ever brought west. The E. Flat Nocturne
of Chopin was done with fragile grace and beauty. She charmed with Geloso's
Caprice, but crept into the heart and dimmed the eye with her Schubert's
Serenade. Miss Powers' sense of pitch is faultless and her double stopping
utterly above reproach. Her tone is large, clear, vibrant and she bows
intelligent phrases."—Walter N. Anthony in the San Francisco Call. "Miss
Jeannette Powers was greeted with an ovation after her violin solo. She is a
charming young woman and one of the most gifted violinists appearing here in
recent seasons. She gave Geloso's Caprice with faultless interpretation and
brilliant technique, and completely charmed the audience."—Tacoma Daily Ledger.
"No one is surprised at the press notices accorded Miss Jeannette Powers after
hearing her play. One often reads of the violinist's soul speaking through his
violin, but seldom is it exemplified to such an extent as during a solo by Miss
Powers. Her deft fingers evoke strains which hold an audience
spellbound."—Pueblo Chieftain. "The most attractive feature of the program was
the Geloso's Caprice, rendered by Fraulein Jeannette Powers, a Joachim favorite.
She has a wonderful breadth of tone, accompanied by a finished technique and an
intelligent interpretation. The audience was unusually enthusiastic. Miss Powers
was recalled again and again."—Lokal Anzieger. "Miss Powers' style recalled
Kubelik. The Zigeunerweisen of Sarasate was interpreted with delicacy and
soulfulness. The audience was charmed."—Paris Edition of New York Herald.
Mr. and Mrs. Block have two children: Frederick Lawrence and Jeanne Avery.
Mr. Block has an interesting military chapter in his life record, having been
one of the first members of Troop G, First Cavalry of the Illinois Guard. He
served successively as private, second lieutenant, first lieutenant and captain,
and saw riot duty at Springfield in August, 1908. His political support is given
to the republican party and his religious faith is that of the First
Congregational church, in which he served as trustee from 1907 until 1909. He is
a Knight Templar and a thirty-second degree Mason, a Knight of Constantine and
a Noble of the Mystic Shrine. He also belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order
of Elks and the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, while his social position in Peoria
is indicated by his membership in the Creve Coeur, the Country, Canoe, Illinois
Valley Yacht and Kickapoo Golf Clubs. Mr. Block belongs to that younger
generation of business men called upon to shoulder responsibilities, differing
materially from those resting upon their predecessors. With the changing
conditions of the times they find themselves obliged to deal with affairs of
greater magnitude and to solve more difficult and complicated financial and
economic problems. The subjective and objective forces of life are in Mr. Block
well balanced, making him cognizant of his own capabilities and powers while at
the same time he thoroughly understands and meets his obligations and
opportunities.
(Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages
890-894, submitted by Janine Crandell)
HAJO HENRY
BLOCK. Hajo Henry Block, treasurer of Schipper & Block, Inc., was born in
this city, February 20, 1883, his parents being Frederick Lawrence and Dena
Block. The mother, who was born and educated in Peoria, died in 1903. The
father, who came to America in 1871 from the north coast of Germany at the age
of sixteen years, was one of the founders of Schipper & Block, Inc., of Peoria
in 1879. He met a tragic death in a railroad wreck in October, 1906.
The son, Hajo Henry Block, pursued his education in the University of
Pennsylvania and was graduated from the school of finance and economics with the
class of 1907. He also studied at different periods in Hamburg and Berlin,
Germany, and his business training was received in the mercantile establishment
of Strawbridge & Clothier, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1907 he became
treasurer of the firm of Schipper & Block and now his attention is directed to
furthering the interests of that establishment, which for a number of years has
maintained a foremost position in the commercial circles of this city.
On New Year's day of 1908, in Peoria, Mr. Block was married to Hazel
Marguerite Nash, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. T. Nash, of Chicago. Since 1907
Mr. Block has been affiliated with the Masons. In the same year he was advanced
to the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite and also crossed the sands of
the desert with the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He belongs to the Creve Coeur
Club, the Country Club and the Phi Delta Theta Alumni Club. He is also a member
of the Peoria Association of Commerce and is a director of the National
Implement and Vehicle Show. He is much interested in all that pertains to the
progress and upbuilding of this city and his cooperation can ever be counted
upon to further movements for the public good. He has republican tendencies but
in politics does not feel himself bound by party ties and votes as his judgment
dictates.
(Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages
894-899, submitted by Janine Crandell)
HENRY
C. BLOCK. No history in this volume illustrates more clearly the force of
perseverance, indefatigable energy and intelligently directed industry than that
of Henry C. Block, whose life work from its beginning to the present time has
been actively creative, public-spirited and useful. To build up rather than to
destroy has ever been his proud policy and he attacks everything that he
undertakes with a contagious enthusiasm. He is prominent as one whose constantly
expanding powers have taken him from humble surroundings to the field of large
enterprises and continually broadening opportunities. As president of Schipper &
Block, Inc., he occupies an enviable position among his fellow townsmen, who
willingly accord him a place in the front ranks not only by reason of his
business qualifications and his success, but also owing to his progressive
citizenship and the principles of honor that have guided his life.
Mr. Block was born in Leer, East Friesland, Germany, in 1842. His
forefathers on both the paternal and maternal sides were in the mercantile
business for several generations and prior to that time the Blocks were in the
employ of the Prussian government as far back as 1630. Mr. Block's father came
from Esens and others of the family came originally from Blockhuisen. His
grandmother was Anna Dorethea Oldendorp, who was born in Norden. Her father came
from Grosslaverde and the home of his people for many years prior to that time
was Aurich.
Mr. Block's father conducted a small dry-goods and dyeing establishment in
Leer and the son was conversant with the details of the business from an early
age. He was educated in Germany, benefitting by the excellent course of study
which the high schools of that country offered to its young men. Immediately
after putting aside his textbooks he entered his father's dry-goods store, where
experience thoroughly acquainted him with all departments of the trade. He was
afterward engaged as a clerk in two large dry-goods stores in Germany before
sailing for America in 1865, when twenty-three years of age. Landing in New
York, he was for a year employed in a dry-goods store of that city and in 1866
started westward, with Pekin, Illinois, as his destination. His initial step as
a business man in this state was made as a clerk in the store of George Tom. The
following year he came to Peoria and entered the employ of the Roebeck Dry Goods
Company, then doing business on Main street. After a brief period, however, he
returned to Pekin to enter the employ of Bonk & Company, leading dry-goods
merchants of that city, and such was the appreciation of the house for Mr.
Block's energy and business qualifications that he was offered a partnership and
became a member of the firm. On the reorganization of the business the name was
changed to Schipper & Block, under which style a flourishing business is still
carried on at Pekin. In 1880 Henry C. Block joined with his brother Frederick
and Mr. Schipper and later they were joined by Theodore Kuhl in opening a store
in Peoria, which constituted the nucleus of the present magnificent
establishment of Schipper & Block of this city. The beginning was small— a
little store on South Adams street—but the principles inaugurated and the policy
pursued led to the continuous growth and prosperity of the business until the
"Big White Store"—the largest dry-goods store in the state outside of Chicago—
is today the pride of Peoria. Later the Schipper & Block Furniture Company
merged their interests with the dry-goods establishment and the history of the
business is now a part of the commercial annals of the city. Henry C. Block as
president of the company and a foremost business man of Peoria has amassed a
splendid fortune and has gained a business reputation of which he has every
reason to be proud, yet in manner he is unassuming and his tastes are modest.
While he does not claim credit for himself, the consensus of public opinion
establishes his reputation as a man of distinguished business ability and a
representative citizen and all who are brought in contact with him readily
recognize his sterling qualities. There is one chapter in his life record that
Mr. Block seldom mentions but which is a matter of justifiable pride to his
friends. Six years ago, through the failure of a private bank, in which he held
stock, but with whose management he was not in any way associated, he lost a
large personal fortune. Five years later, after having recouped a part of his
losses, he voluntarily paid an additional amount, approximating one hundred
thousand dollars, to the depositors who had lost their savings in the bank. Such
was the personal honor and high principle of the man that he paid this amount
freely when there was no moral or legal obligation whatever for him to do so,
the courts having discharged him of any and all liability. Such high principles
had been guiding factors in his entire career and it is owing to this that his
fellow townsmen entertain for him the highest confidence and regard.
In Pekin, in 1871, Mr. Block was married to Miss Louisa Smith, a member of
a prominent family of manufacturers in Germany, and his married life has been
particularly happy. He has never mingled to any extent in politics, devoting his
time entirely to his business affairs, yet he is interested in the vital
questions of the day and has always supported the republican party. He belongs
to the Creve Coeur Club and to the Methodist church. While in his business
career he has passed on to a position of wealth and prominence, he has never
neglected his opportunities to assist his fellow travelers on life's journey,
his hand being often extended to aid those to whom nature, fate or environment
have seemed less kindly. His life has in large measure been an exemplification
of his belief in the universal brotherhood of man.
(Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages
899-900, submitted by Janine Crandell)
JOHN G. S. BOHANON was born in Schenectady county, New York, December 27, 1812. He learned the carriage trade with James Gould at Albany, New York. After working at that business a year or two he came to Peoria county, Illinois, in the year 1832. Mr. Bohanon was an officer in an old artillery regiment in New York, and had passed many a pleasant day on “muster.” Mr. Bohanon was married in 1831 to Miss Jane West, by whom he had three children; two are living. Mrs. Bohanon died in 1837. Mr. Bohanon was again married in 1842, to Miss Sarah Olwood. There were two children born to them; one of them died in the army. Mr. Bohanon was marred the third time, in 1846, to Mrs. Mary Whit, by whom he had seven children; one is dead. Mrs. Bohanon died in 1859. Mr. Bohanon was again married in 1863, to Miss Mary Blackwell. She is the mother of four children, one of whom is dead. Mr. Bohanon has considerable property in different parts of the county. A view of his place can be found in this work. There is still standing on Mr. Bohanon’s farm the log cabin in which he lived when he first came to the county. (Atlas Map of Peoria County, Illinois, 1873, page 78, submitted by Dan Grachek & wife)
BOOTH, L. L. farmer, Sec. 32, P. O. Elmwood. Among the first settlers of this part of Peoria county, was the subject of this sketch, who was born in Roxbury, Litchfield county, Conn., on the second day of November, 1812. When very young he was apprenticed to a tailor, at Plymouth, Conn., with whom he served four years. After working at journeyman's work at Plymouth for a few months, thence to Sackett's Harbor, N. Y.; thence to Bridgewater, Conn., where he took charge of an extensive merchant tailoring establishment. On the 29th of March, 1835, he married Harriet C. Coggswell, born in Roxbury, Conn., December 4, 1807. In the Spring of 1838, in company with a brother, came to this county, purchased 480 acres of land, of which 160 acres he retains, valued at $80 per acre. The fruit of this marriage was four children. Are members of the Congregational Church at Brimfield. Republican in politics. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 713, submitted by Janine Crandell)
BENJAMIN LANGFORD TODD BOURLAND. Among those
who are operating in real estate in Peoria Benjamin Langford Todd Bourland is
well known and it would be difficult to find one who has a wider acquaintance
with realty values or who has conducted more important negotiations over the
exchange of property here. He was born in Trigg county, Kentucky, October 10,
1825, a son of Andrew and Damaris (Reese) Bourland, both of whom were natives of
South Carolina. His great-grandfather, John Bourland, was born in the north of
Ireland and early in life sought the opportunities offered by the new world,
establishing his home in South Carolina. In that state occurred the birth of his
son, the Rev. John Bourland, who, on attaining his majority, there married Miss
Mary Loving, also a native of that state. On the maternal side Benjamin L. T.
Bourland comes of ancestry established in South Carolina in colonial days. One
of his great-grandfathers was Bayless Earle, whose wife lived to the age of one
hundred and four years. Their daughter, Nancy Earle, became the wife of John
Reese, also a native of South Carolina, and they were the parents of Damaris
Reese, who became the wife of Andrew Bourland. It was in the year 1834 that
Andrew Bourland removed with his family to Illinois, settling in Perry county,
where they remained until 1836. In that year a removal was made to Vandalia,
which was then the capital of the state, and in 1840 when the capital was
removed to Springfield, Mr. Bourland became a resident of that city. In May,
1844, he became a resident of Chicago, and the year 1847 witnessed his arrival
in Peoria, which became his place of permanent abode.
In the meantime Benjamin L. T. Bourland had been
attending the public schools in the different localities where the family
resided and for a time was a student in an academy at Springfield. He was also
employed for a period in the office of the Hon. Alexander P. Field, secretary of
state, and after going to Chicago he had his first experience in the real-estate
business with Ogden, Jones & Company. On coming to Peoria he continued in the
same line of business in company with William R. Phelps, adding thereto a
banking and loan business. During his residence in Peoria, covering a period of
sixty-five years, he has been identified with various banking enterprises and in
addition has conducted some of the most important real-estate operations in the
history of the city. He has always kept well informed concerning property values
and has therefore been enabled to negotiate important realty transfers
beneficial alike to his clients and to himself. At the present time he is
engaged in the real-estate and loan business as senior member of the firm of
Bourland & Bailey. They have large and commodious offices in the new Dime
Savings Bank building and have an extensive clientele which indicates that the
business is one of the most important and extensive of the kind in the city.
Mr. Bourland has been twice married. On the 20th of
November, 1849 he wedded Julia M. Preston, of St. Louis, Missouri, and on the
17th of January, 1869, Clara Parsons, of Chicago, became his wife. By the first
marriage there were born two sons, Ogden Phelps and Rudolphus Rouse. The
children of the second marriage were six in number, four sons and two daughters,
Benjamin Parsons, Caroline Brown, Elsie Parsons, Norman T., Philip D. and Robert
C.
In religious belief Mr. Bourland is a Unitarian and in
politics he is a democrat. He has always been a broad and liberal-minded man,
interested in life, its purposes and its activities and seeking ever to benefit
not only himself but others by his labors and his example. He enjoys an
unassailable reputation for integrity and honor in business and his success is
the merited reward of earnest labor and capable management. Mr. Bourland has now
passed the eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey and is one of the venerable
and honored residents of the city. He has been a witness of a greater part of
the growth and development of the state. The leading events in its history are
familiar to him not because he has read of them but because he has lived through
the period in which they occurred. There are few men today who can claim
residence in Vandalia when it was the capital of the state. He has watched the
marvelous growth of Chicago and almost equally wonderful development of the
entire commonwealth. While he has not sought to figure prominently in public
affairs he has ever been faithful to the duties that have come to him day by day
and his worth as a citizen and business man has long been widely acknowledged.
(Peoria, City
and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages 19-20, submitted by Janine Crandell)
WILL G.
BOWERS. Will G. Bowers, of Elmwood, is well known in the banking world,
having since 1904 served as state bank examiner of the northern district of
Illinois, which includes all the counties north of Peoria except Cook county. A
native of Elmwood, he was born May 7, 1856, a son of Daniel D. and Lucy A.
(Gleason) Bowers. The father was born in New Hampshire and the mother in
Massachusetts and they were married in the latter state. In 1854 they removed to
Illinois, settling in Salem township, Knox county, and after about three years
removed to Elmwood. Here the father engaged in merchandising and was also
postmaster of the town. He was very active in the time of the war and assisted
in the organization of two companies, but being a cripple he was not permitted
to enlist in the service. In his political views he was a republican and was of
the Universalist faith and his wife is also a member of the Universalist church.
He passed away in March, 1876, and his wife is yet living. In their family were
four children, the eldest of whom is the subject of this review. The others
were: John H., who died in 1892; Lucy A.; and D. Frank, of Farmington, Illinois.
Will G. Bowers was educated in the public schools of Elmwood and in early
life was employed in a grocery store where he worked for three years. He then
began work for W. E. Phelps in the foundry business, but after a short time he
again took up grocery work, entering the employ of the firm of G. R. Graham &
Goddard. After eleven years he took up the coal business, working again for W.
E. Phelps. Subsequently he became assistant cashier of the Elmwood State Bank
and in May, 1896, he entered the employ of the auditor of public accounts and
has been in that work ever since. For eight years of that time he has been
building and loan inspector and for the past seven years has been state bank
examiner for the northern district, which includes all the counties north of
Peoria except Cook.
On the 30th of December, 1882, Mr. Bowers married Miss Lillian M. Van
Petten, who is a native of New York and a daughter of John and Hannah T.
(Bourne) Van Petten. The father, John Van Petten, was a school teacher and when
nineteen years of age came from New York to Illinois, where he followed his
profession. He located at Trivoli and there met and married Miss Hannah T.
Bourne, who was a native of Sterling, New York, but had come to this county as a
mere child with her parents. She was the daughter of Meltiah Tobey and Mary
(Bartlett) Bourne, both of whom were natives of Massachusetts and were married
in that state on June 1, 1832, and a year later removed to Illinois. They
located at Trivoli, being the first settlers there and named the town. They
resided at Trivoli until 1848 when they removed to Elmwood where they both died.
Mr. Bourne was a brother of Jonathan Bourne, who was the father of Senator
Bourne of Oregon. Jonathan Bourne was at one time a large ship builder and ship
owner and the largest whale ship owner in the world. After their marriage Mr.
and Mrs. John Van Petten removed to New York but after a period of three years
returned to Peoria county, Illinois, and here they resided the rest of their
lives and reared their family of four children: Lillian M., Frederick B.,
Augustus J., and one who is deceased. Mrs. Bowers' family ancestry has been
traced back to members who came to America in the Mayflower. To Mr. and Mrs.
Bowers have been born four children: Mary Loring, who is the wife of H. P.
Jarman, of Elmwood; Mildred Gleason, who is a graduate of the Elmwood high
school, and is now at home; John Frederick, who is now nineteen years of age and
is a freshman in the mechanical engineering department of the Illinois State
University and by himself has constructed two automobiles; and Marjorie L., who
is now at school.
Mr. Bowers' steady application and careful study of business methods and
plans to be followed, have made him one of the successful business men of the
county. He has a wide circle of friends and acquaintances who give him their
warm regard and he is most highly honored in the town where he has spent his
life. In his political views he is a republican and in the early days of his
life he served as clerk and treasurer of the city board. Fraternally he belongs
to the Arcanus Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Mrs. Bowers is
a member of the Congregational church. (Peoria, City
and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, page 403, submitted by Janine Crandell)
BOWMAN, J. P. dealer in hardware, residence Brimfield, was born in Windsor, Vt., on May 16, 1818, and when fourteen years of age entered a woolen mill at Perkinsville in his native county, and remained until the failure of the company; in 1840 went to Chester, Vt., was employed in same occupation until 1845, when he became a partner, and continued until coming to Illinois in 1854. In July, 1843 he married Martha A. Clark, who was born in Weathersfield, Vt., in 1820. Purchased a farm in Brimfield township, and for several years engaged in farming. In July, 1854, his wife died leaving one son. The following Fall he sold the farm and removed to Brimfield, and in company with Wm. H. Day purchased the business and stock of J. E. Wiley & Co. On the 18th day of July, 1857, married Helen N. Day. She was born in Rockingham, Vt., in 1839. The fruit of this marriage was five sons and three daughters. In the Spring of 1859 Mr. B. sold out his hardware business and removed to Muscatine, Iowa, where he embarked in the agricultural implement trade until the Fall of 1862, then returned to Brimfield and engaged in the dry goods trade for six months, then sold out to J. B. Day, now of Gloa. The brothers then purchased the Wily farm of six hundred and fifty acres at the same time owning half interest with H. O. Burt in the hardware business. In 1869 sold their farm, and from that time until 1871 engaged in brick-making, a part of which were used by himself in erecting the store in which he is now doing business. In March, 1872, his present partner purchased the interest of Mr. Burt, since which time the business has continued unchanged. Are members of the Congregational Church, of which he has been deacon for thirty years. Republican in politics. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 713, submitted by Janine Crandell)
THOMAS BOYLE was born in the
county of South Ireland, December 22d, 1826 and is the oldest son in a family of
four children. His father died in 1830, and, in 1835, his mother, with the
remainder of the family, crossed the Atlantic, and arrived in New York, July 3d,
1835. On the 13th of October, 1836, they again moved westward, and came to
Peoria county, under the advice of Thomas and Lawrence Dolan, his mother's
brothers, who were already settled here. They came to Chicago by lake, and by
team to Peru, and by the steamboat "Motto" to Rome, reaching their destination,
upon the northeast quarter of section five, Medina township, November 15th 1836.
The subject of this sketch remained here, engaged in
farming, until nineteen years of age, when he went into the brick-making
business. While in Medina, his mother died, on the 25th of November, 1842, in
her forty-fourth year, leaving in the care of Thomas a younger brother, who
followed his business, and now lives in the vicinity. Mrs. Boyle was a woman of
more than ordinary determination and power of mind, as is shown by the
successful rearing of her family, under difficulties in a new country. She lies
buried in the cemetery near Kickapoo.
While following the brick-making business, near Peoria,
for various persons, he was married, January 1st, 1851, to Miss Ann Byrnes, of
Peoria, and in 1854, he began business for himself on the place now occupied as
a residence by Theobald Pfeiffer. Meeting with good success, he purchased
thirty-five acres of land, in Richwoods, which in the southwest quarter of the
southwest quarter of section thirty-three, one mile and a half from the court
house, where he now loves. Here he had the opportunity of carrying on business
to any extent that he saw fit, and this he has done with prudence and prosperity
ever since. Mr. and Mrs. Boyle have buried two children and have eight now
living under the paternal roof, five sons and three daughters, the oldest of
whom is in her twenty-second year, and the youngest in her fifth month. Mr.
Boyle has been commissioner of highways and township collector, but in the
present state of politics sees nothing to interest or encourage an old school
democrat, and is contentedly employing himself in the conduct of his flourishing
business and the care of his family. He has so managed his affairs that he has
never been obliged to sue or be sued in court, which shows the promptness and
honor which have always characterized his dealings. (Atlas Map of
Peoria County, Illinois, 1873, page 81, submitted by Kup Fercell)
JOSEPH BRADLEY. Joseph
Bradley, Supervisor of Chillicothe Township, and residing in the city of the
same name, is a sturdy Englishman, on whom his fellow-men look with respect on
account of his shrewdness and straightforward dealings with mankind. He was born
in Groylesteen, Lancashire, England, April 27, 1828, and worked in a cotton
factory until the age of fourteen years. He then began an apprenticeship at the
trade of a wagon-maker, and after mastering his handicraft set up a home of his
own, taking as his companion Miss Mary A. Story, who has shared in all his joys,
sympathized in his disappointments and aided him, as none but a loving woman
can, in every scene through which they have passed, receiving in return the
deepest regard and kindest consideration.
In 1851 Mr. and Mrs. Bradley determined to emigrate to
America, and having crossed the Atlantic, located in Wyoming County, N. Y. There
Mr. Bradley carried on his trade two years, then changing his location to
Chillicothe, Ill., he, in the fall of 1853, established a business which he
conducted until 1887. He had not been in this place long before he became known
as an excellent workman and a man of honor in business relations, his trade
increasing in proportion as his reputation became established. His
fellow-citizens have called for his services in their behalf as Supervisor of
Chillicothe Township, in which capacity he has served eight years, and as one of
the Aldermen of the city, he having filled that position for nine years. He is a
sound Democrat in his political views. To him and his wife one daughter has been
born, that event having transpired in the Empire State. This daughter, Jennie,
is the wife of Edgar Heath, a grocery dealer in Henry, this State. They have
three children, named respectively, Pearl B., Joseph W. and Orris R.
The father of our subject was John Bradley, a native of
Yorkshire and descendant of English ancestors. He married Miss Esther Hughes,
who was born in Wales, of Welsh parents, but reared in Lancashire, England. In
that shire Mr. and Mrs. John Bradley passed their wedded life, dying when past
the age of seventy. The wife was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our
subject was the second of three children born to his parents. His brother,
Thomas, spent his entire life in his native land, leaving a widow and four
children when called hence. He was a baker by trade. Ann, the youngest member of
the parental family, became the wife of James Miller, and she also died in
England, leaving one child.
Mrs. Bradley, of this sketch, was born in Pockleting,
Yorkshire, England, November 5, 1826, being the only daughter and the oldest
child of David and Jane (Craig) Story, who were likewise natives of Yorkshire.
She was well reared, remaining with her parents until her marriage. Her parents
came to America when she and her husband emigrated, and spent their last days
with their daughter in Chillicothe. Mr. Story was nearly seventy-nine years old
and his wife seventy-six when called hence. Mrs. Story was of the Presbyterian
faith. The three brothers of Mrs. Bradley also came to America, and all are yet
living.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
789-790, submitted by Gaile Thomas)
BROOKS, CYRUS, farmer, Sec. 14, P. O. Brimfield. Prominent among the enterprising and successful farmers of this section of Peoria county, was the subject of this sketch; was born in Chester, Vt., on the 24th day of May, 1807. His father granting him his liberty on reaching his 2Oth year, he worked as a farm laborer until Jan., 1831, at which time he married Miss Emily C. Bennett, who was born in Rockingham, Vt., in 1803. In June, 1843, they left their native State with team and wagon, and emigrated to Brimfield, Ill., being seven weeks and three days making the journey. They settled where he now resides, and owns 469 acres of land, valued at $85 per acre. In February, 1868, his wife died, leaving four children. In December, 1869, he married Mrs. Ellen Carron, widow of John Carron, of Henry county, Ill. She was born on the Isle of Man, but raised in Ireland. Married in Liverpool, and with her husband emigrated to the United States in 1851. She died on the first day of May, 1878. Mr. Brooks is a member of the M. E. Church. Republican in politics. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, pages 713-714, submitted by Janine Crandell)
B. FRANK BROWN. B. Frank Brown, founder of the Brown Printing Company
and an official of various other local enterprises, is one of the successful
business men of Peoria whose life should be an inspiration to every ambitious
young man, as it clearly demonstrates what it is possible to achieve through the
intelligent application of intense energy. Mr. Brown is not only prominently
connected with the manufacturing and industrial interests of the city but he is
actively identified with political affairs, having for some years been a member
of the board of aldermen. He was born in Washington, Illinois, on the 18th of
September, 1866, and is a son of Adam and Salome Brown. The father is one of the
foremost citizens of El Paso, this state, where he has been engaged in carriage
building for more than thirty years. He is a republican in his political views
and has been a member of the town council during a part of his residence there.
Originally the Brown family came from Pennsylvania and they are of Dutch
extraction, but they have long been residents of Illinois.
The education of B. Frank Brown was obtained in the
public schools of El Paso, which he attended until he was fourteen years of age.
He then laid aside his text-books to become a clerk in the post office. He
subsequently apprenticed himself for three years to the jewelry business and
after the expiration of his period of service worked for several years as
journeyman watchmaker in the states of Illinois, Kansas, Nevada and California.
While employed in the latter state he learned how to make rubber stamp, from the
man with whom he worked at the bench. Upon his return to Illinois he located in
Peoria and borrowing seventy-five dollars engaged in the manufacture of rubber
stamps. He engaged in this enterprise with intense enthusiasm and an abundance
of energy, determining to make it a success. He did his work thoroughly,
delivered his orders promptly and took infinite pains to satisfy his patrons,
and as a result his trade increased rapidly and he was subsequently able to
extend the scope of his activities by adding a job printing department. This
likewise proved to be very remunerative and he later engaged in book binding
also, and during the intervening years the business has developed until it is
now the largest concern of the kind in the state outside of Chicago. As his
business has prospered, Mr. Brown has extended his interests in various
directions and is financially interested in several thriving enterprises of the
city. He is secretary and treasurer of The Peoria Bulletin Company located at
201 and 203 South Washington street, and is secretary of The Smith-Brown Tent &
Awning Company, located at 107 South Washington avenue, and treasurer of The
Saratoga Cigar Stores Company.
In this city on the 1st of June, 1887, Mr. Brown was
united in marriage to Miss Adah Prince, a daughter of Mrs. Cordelia Prince, and
to them have been born two children: Chauncey, who is superintendent of the
monotype department of the Brown Printing Company; and Vera, who died in 1889 at
the age of fourteen months and is buried at Washington, Illinois. The family
home is located at 518 Bryan street, where they have a very pleasant and
comfortable residence.
Mr. Brown is a Knight Templar and a member of the
Shrine. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent Protective
Order of Elks and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his connection
with organizations of a more purely social nature is confined to his membership
in the Creve Coeur Club. Mr. Brown votes the republican ticket and is now
serving his second term as alderman from the third ward. He manifests the same
qualities in the discharge of his public duties as characterize him in his
business transactions, and as a result has proven to be a highly satisfactory
and efficient official. He possesses an intense capacity for work, pronounced
executive ability and unusual powers of organization, which qualities have been
dominant factors in his career. (Peoria, City and County,
Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages 18-19, submitted by Janine Crandell)
BURT, E. E. farmer, Sec. 19, P. O. Elmwood. Was born in Rockingham, Vt., on the 16th day of October, 1839. His parents, with their family, came to this county in 1853, and located on Sec. 19. He owns 120 acres of land, valued at $75 per acre. In 1862 he enlisted in the 77th Regiment, Illinois Infantry, and served seven months, and was discharged from disability. On the 14th day of April, 1863, married Miss Annie E , daughter of Truman and Betsy Barber, who were early settlers in Knox county, where she was born in 1839. They are blessed with a family of eight children, three sons and five daughters. Mrs. Burt is a member of the M. E. Church. Republican in politics. Has held several local offices of trust. Is a member of the I. O. O. F., of Lodge 102 of Elmwood; also of the Gate City Encampment, No. 167. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 714, submitted by Janine Crandell)
BURT, H. O., dealer in grain, res. Brimfield, was born in Rockingham, Vt., on the third day of May, 1823; having attained his seventeenth year worked as farm laborer until twenty-one years of age, arriving at Peoria on that day, but soon after came to Brimfield. For the first two years worked for Washington Cockle, and continued as laborer until 1856. Married Harriet M. Bowman, born in Windsor county, Vt., on the 21st day of May, 1823. In 1857, in company with B. B. Bowman and H. C. Gilson, embarked in the dry goods trade, and continued for three years, then engaged in buying grain at Oak Hill for two years; then went into the hardware business, first with E. E. Burt, then with J. P. Bowman, continuing until 1872; since which time he has been engaged at his present business, having erected an elevator with a capacity of 12,000 bushels; sold it the past spring to J. M. Leet, of Chicago. Has held various local offices of trust. Mrs. B. is a member of the Congregational Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 714, submitted by Janine Crandell)
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