Biographies of Peoria County People
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| Gustave Dammann | Thomas Doty |
| H. H. Darby | J. J. Dove |
| Jacob Darst | Joseph Doubet |
| Jacob Dawson | Oscar Dubuis |
| Theodore Dawson | George DuMars |
| William H. Day | Rufus DuMars |
| Henry Detweiller | more to come... |
GUSTAVE DAMMANN. We would fail of our object of representing a complete history
of the county were we to omit from this album the sketch of the late Gustave Dammann, who for nearly a quarter of a century was engaged in business in
Peoria. He was an excellent example of the zealous, industrious, law-abiding
German-American citizen, who, steadfastly pursuing his business career,
thriftily managing his income, secured a good standing in business circles and
was enabled to supply his family with all of the comforts and many of the
luxuries of life.
The parents of our subject were John Frederick and Johanna (Gebser) Dammann,
natives of Prussia, in which kingdom the son Gustave was also born, the date of
his birth being October 22, 1832. He remained in his native land until after he
had become of age, acquiring the education which the Fatherland provides for all
her sons and daughters. Having been drawn to America by the reports which had
reached him of the better opportunities for financial advancement and personal
advantage which would be found here, he emigrated in 1854, making his first
settlement in Burlington, Iowa. There he was engaged in the grocery business
about four years, after which he removed to Galesburg, Ill., resuming his
former occupation in
that place. In 1862 he took up his abode in Peoria, embarking in the toy
business, which he successfully prosecuted as long as his health would permit.
After a long sickness he breathed his last, November 11, 1886.
Mr. Dammann was a man of integrity in business relations, kind and considerate
in social and domestic life, meriting the esteem of his associates and receiving
from them a due measure of the same. Appreciating the opportunities which this
country affords, he gave his children every advantage possible, assisting them
to secure good educations, and encouraging all their efforts toward personal
advancement. He was a member of the Order of Druids. Before coming to this
country Mr. Dammann was a member of the Lutheran Church, but never identified
himself with any church here.
The marriage of Mr. Dammann and Miss Josephine Steffens was celebrated April
20,1856. Mrs. Dammann is a native of Germany, but at the time of her marriage
was living in Burlington, Iowa. She is a notable housewife, a devoted mother and
a devout member of the Sacred Heart Church. Mr. and Mrs. Dammann became the
parents of seven children, but three of whom are now living. The son, Frederick
Joseph, is now in business; Jenny, a graduate of the Normal School, is engaged
in teaching; Ernestine is her mother's companion in the home, and is now
engaged in the millinery business.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
638-639, submitted by Janine Crandell)
DARBY, H. H., farmer, Sec. 28, P. O. Elmwood. Son of Wm. and Mary Darby, nee Mann, natives of New England, but settled in Genessee county, N. Y., about the year 1826, where the subject of this sketch was born August 2, 1840. At the age of eleven, with his parents, came to Peoria county and located on section 28, where he now resides. Owns fifty-five and a half acres of land, valued at $80 per acre. On May 26, 1865, enlisted in the hundred days service; mustered out at Chicago, November, 1865. On September 6, 1866, he married Ellen, daughter of Edson Smith, of Elmwood township. She was born in Elmwood township, May 30, 1848. They have two children, a son and daughter. Members of the Congregational Church, at Elmwood. Republican. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, pages 716-717, submitted by Janine Crandell)
JACOB DARST. There are times when to be unsuccessful seems almost
impossible, so favorable are the surroundings, and little merit accrues to the
winner in such a feeble contest. But when reverses that seem insurmountable to
many men, are met and surmounted, serving but to stimulate the worker to greater
efforts, a deep interest attaches to the winner of the prize and honor is given
him by all men. A study of the manners and methods by which circumstances are
bent to the ultimate rewarding of persistent shrewdness and industry, proves
both interesting and profitable. It would be impossible in the limits of a
sketch like this to more than hint at the means by which the gentleman above
named has reached the high station he fills among the moneyed men of Peoria. The
biographical writer can only say that he has overcome difficulties that would
have disheartened many men and although losing as high as $300,000 at "one fell
swoop," he has steadfastly persisted in the attempt to win fortune and now
rejoices in the possession of a handsome one reaching much above the half
million.
Some two hundred years ago the first Darst came to
America, the family having prior to that time been known only in Germany. Jacob
Darst, Sr., was born in Virginia and in that State Elizabeth Tarr was also born.
This couple became man and wife and reared eight children, two of whom are now
living. They are the subject of this sketch, and an older brother, Eli, who
lives in Ouray, Col. The father died in Ohio about 1836. In Meigs County, of
that State, Jacob Darst, Jr., was born September 16, 1815. His early life was
passed in the manner usual to farmers' sons, his time being alternated between
attendance at the schools of the period and the labors in which his increasing
strength would permit him to participate.
In June, 1835, he came to Peoria and entered the
general merchandise establishment of Aquilla Ahrens as a clerk, a year later
going to Galena where he engaged in lead mining. After spending two years in
that arduous occupation he returned to Peoria and began buying and selling land.
On a quarter section that he bought for $5 per acre he opened a coal mine which
proved profitable. A short time afterward he went to boating with Mr. Ahrens,
taking flatboats down to Natchez, Miss., laden with the products of this region
which he exchanged for those raised along the route. On one occasion when he had
about $4,000 worth of produce to be marketed, a tornado struck him at Natchez
and his stock in trade was entirely destroyed. He reached home with $13.50 in
his pocket but ready for another start in life, confident that somewhere and
somehow success awaited him. Returning to the business of coal mining, Mr. Darst
made about $15,000 in five years and keeping his capital chiefly invested in
real estate which he bought and sold, he had in a short time gained
$35,000 in such operations. Since then he has given his attention entirely to
dealing in real estate and while sometimes meeting reverses in the business, he
has been successful on the whole as his financial status proves. The
appreciation of his property is rapid, during the last year the advance having
been fully $200,000. His pleasant home, on North Monroe and Fayette Streets, is
furnished in a style consonant with the wealth and taste of the inmates, woman's
refining influence being visible in its adornments.
Mr. Darst has been twice married. His first wife was
Elizabeth Daugherty, with whom he was united in 1850, and lived happily until
1865, when she breathed her last. She was the mother of ten children, three of
whom survive. They are Edwin J., and William, both of whom live in Omaha, Neb.,
and Mrs. Casey, wife of E. A. Casey, a lawyer in Chicago. In 1867 Mr. Darst
married Mrs. Helen R. Leonard, who now presides over his home and enjoys with
him the comforts and luxuries by which they are surrounded. By the last marriage
he has one child, Mrs. Lura Barnard, wife of J. C. Barnard, a lawyer practicing
in Omaha, Neb., where they reside. Mr. Darst belongs to the Masonic fraternity
in which he has progressed to the thirty-second degree. Politically Mr. Darst is
a Republican and during the war was a stanch Union man.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
364-365, submitted by Janine Crandell)
JACOB DAWSON was born in
Morgan county, Virginia, January 28th, 1816. He is the son of Isaac and Hannah
Dawson, natives of Virginia. He resided in Virginia until twenty-one years of
age. He received a very limited amount of education, and endured the hardships
of boys attending school at that early day.
He left Virginia in 1837, and went to Ohio and settled in Lancaster and lived
there seven years. He then came to Peoria county, Illinois, and after making
several moves, settled in Rosefield township. He is now living in the town of
Oak Hill, engaged in the grocery business, and is considered one of the best
citizens.
Mr. Dawson was married in 1836 to Mary Ann Robey, a native of Washington county,
Maryland, born November 16th, 1816, by whom he had no children.
When he arrived in Peoria he had but a five-dollar gold piece in his pocket, but
by energy and perseverance he succeeded in laying by money enough to buy a farm,
on which he lived seven years, and then sold to his brother. He owns
considerable property in Peoria county, made by hard work. Mr. Dawson has now
settled down in Oak Hill, and is living a pleasant, retired life with his
family. (Atlas Map of
Peoria County, Illinois, 1873, page 82, submitted by Susan Hare)
THEODORE DAWSON. This
gentleman, who is numbered among the younger farmers of Rosefield Township, was
reared to the pursuit which he is now following with a degree of success highly
satisfactory. He was born near Oak Hill, August 30, 1853, being a son of Andrew
and Elizabeth (Stahl) Dawson. He acquired a good education in the common schools
and keeps himself well informed regarding current events and general topics of
interest. He was married August 20, 1882, to Miss Rebecca Rynearson, who has
borne him two bright children— Reuben and Minnie Belle. The estate upon which
Mr. Dawson lives consists of one hundred and fifty-three acres belonging to his
wife, being her portion of the estate of her deceased father.
Mrs. Dawson was born April 1, 1865, to Ephraim C. and
Keziah (Luse) Rynearson, by whom she was carefully reared, acquiring a good
education, much useful domestic knowledge, and the habits and traits of
character which fit her to discharge the duties devolving upon her as wife,
mother and member of society. She is one of a family of twelve children, of whom
we note the following: Mary J. is now Mrs. Keys, of El Paso; Harriet Ann died
when five years old; Sarah is now Mrs. Shut, of Ford County; Mrs. Elizabeth
Seigel lives in this township; Robert J. is a resident of Elmwood; Maria died
when seventeen years old; Deminicus lives in Clay County, Neb.; Alice is the
wife of Lafayette Smith, of this township; Keziah died when five years old;
Charles died at the age of seven months; Isabella, Mrs. Holt, lives in this
township; Rebecca is the wife of Theodore Dawson, our subject.
The father of Mrs. Dawson was born in Hamilton County,
Ohio, March 2, 1814, reared on a farm and received a common-school education. He
came to Peoria County, Ill., settling on section 28, Rosefield Township, then
going to Franklin County, Ind., was married December 5, 1836, to a native of
that county, and bringing his bride to the Prairie State spent the remainder of
his life here. In 1862 he raised a company, of which he was appointed Captain,
but after serving three months in the Union Army, sickness compelled his
resignation. He served as Township Supervisor ten years and Justice of the Peace
twenty-two years. At the time of his death, November 29, 1877, he owned fourteen
hundred acres of land, and was occupying the homestead on which his father had
settled in 1833.
The parents of Ephraim C. Rynearson were Minney and
Sarah (Carl) Rynearson, natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey respectively. The
father was a soldier in the War of 1812. On removing from Hamilton County, Ohio,
to Peoria County, Ill., Mr. Rynearson took up a large tract of land and built a
brick residence, which was one of the first erected in this section and one of
the finest of the period. He served as Justice of the Peace many years, being
gathered to his fathers in April, 1865, his wife dying some two years later. Of
the fourteen children born to them, Maria, Ephraim, John, Elizabeth, Sarah,
Thomas, Martha J. and Rebecca A. grew to years of maturity, all rearing families
except Maria, Jane and Thomas.
The mother of Mrs. Dawson was born January 9, 1817, and
is a daughter of Robert and Mary (Jones) Luse, both of whom were natives of
Pennsylvania. They removed to Indiana at an early day, spending the remainder of
their lives in Franklin County, where Mr. Luse died about 1825, his widow
surviving him forty years and reaching the age of eighty-four years. Ten
children were born to them, two of whom died young and five in later life. Those
now living are: Dr. Alexander Luse, of Ohio; Hiram, in Indiana; and Mrs. Keziah
Rynearson. The latter holds two hundred and ten acres of the Rynearson
homestead, upon it being a brick house which was built in 1851. The Luse family
is of Dutch origin, and its members have long been identified with the Baptist
Church.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
632-633, submitted by Janine Crandell)
DAY WM. H. dealer in dry goods and general merchandise, Knoxville avenue; residence, Brimfield. Was born in Chesterfield, N. Y., on the seventh day of March, 1818; was reared on a farm, and received a common school education. At seventeen, engaged as an employee in a woolen mill in his native town, where he remained six years. Thence to Grafton, Vt., where he engaged in business for himself, and remained until 1854. Thence to Illinois, and soon after embarked in his present business in Brimfield. In 1843, he married Miss Abbie S. Wooley, of Grafton, Vt., who was born in that city on the seventh day of April, 1821. She died in this village on the 1st day of June, 1878, leaving two sons. Wm. H., Jr., born on the third day of March, 1845; married Josephine, daughter of Ezekiel Day, of Peoria. Second son, George M., born on the 27th day of February, 1850; married Louisa J., daughter of Geo. F. Guy, of Peoria. The family are members of the Baptist Church. Politics, Republican. Derby L. M. constable, P. O. Brimfield. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 717, submitted by Janine Crandell)
CAPT. HENRY DETWEILLER, a prominent and wealthy business man of Peoria,
is successfully conducting a large wholesale and retail ice business at No. 108
South Adams Street. He was born June 19, 1825, in the Province of Loraine,
Germany, which at that time formed a part of the domain of France. His parents,
Christian and Catherine (Schertz) Detweiller, were natives respectively of
France and Bavaria. His father accumulated a fortune in the farming, milling and
transfer business, which he lost during the war of 1812 and 1813, and died in
1832 a poor man. Henry, of whom we write, is the only survivor of the eighteen
children borne him by his two wives.
After the death of the father, the mother of our
subject came to this country with him and three daughters, landing at New York
after a voyage of sixty days, and forty-two days later the travelers arrived in
Peoria. They came from New York to Rochester by boat, thence to Buffalo by
canal, thence by lake to Cleveland, and from there by canal to Cincinnati,
thence by boat on the Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois Rivers to Peoria --- from
St. Louis on the steamer "Ark," commanded by Capt. Thomas Want --- where Mrs.
Detweiller's son John had located three years previously. He kept an hotel here
in early days, and then went to St. Louis, where he followed the same business,
and there his death occurred in 1842. The mother of our subject did not long
survive her removal from her old home to this country, but died here in 1838.
The subject of this biography was only six years of age
when his father died, and was scarce twelve years old when he accompanied his
mother and sisters to this country. He was reared under our institutions to a
manly, vigorous manhood, and in the hour of her greatest trial he proved his
loyalty and devotion to the home of his adoption, by offering his services in
defense of her honor and to aid in preserving the integrity of the Union. After
coming here Henry was variously employed, working for his brother, clerking,
etc., when not attending school, and at the age of fifteen he went on board the
steamboat "Frontier" to train for a pilot under Milton Hasbrouck, and was on
that boat until its collision with the "Panama," September 2, 1842. The
following spring he shipped as second pilot under his old instructor on the
steamer "Chicago," a new boat which the company had just built. He was engaged
on that steamer in that capacity until 1844, when the boat was withdrawn from
the river, and he then secured a similar position on the "Raritan," and next
year was appointed first pilot on the new boat, "Governor Briggs;" and later was
made Captain, and after June, 1846, ran her from Galena to New Albany, on the
upper Mississippi, as a mail and passenger boat. For several years following Mr.
Detweiller acted as captain or pilot on a number of steamboats, and in 1856
became part owner of the "Movaster," and selling her in 1857, in 1858 became
sole proprietor of the "Minnesota."
Our subject was still engaged in the steamboat business
when the war broke out, and in the spring of 1862 he offered his services to the
Government. He first commanded the "Jenny Lind," and in July, 1863, became
master of the "Yankee," of which he had charge during the remainder of his
service. While commanding the Government transports he did important work for
the cause, and at times ran great hazards in his efforts to elude the enemy and
takes his precious freight to a safe port. In the latter part of October, 1863,
he sailed from St. Louis to New Orleans with a cargo valued at $250,000, and it
was only by various devices and strategems that our ingenious captain was at
last enabled to moor his boat in the New Orleans harbor, with no further damage
than was sustained by one shot from the rebels.
After the war Capt. Detweiller commanded the "Beaver" until 1874, when he
abandoned the water to give his attention more closely to the ice business,
which he had established in 1870 in partnership with N. L. Woodruff. In
December, 1876, he severed his connection with that gentleman, and has since
managed his large and constantly increasing business himself, conducting both a
wholesale and retail trade. His large establishments for ice have a capacity of
more than 13,500 tons.
Mr. Detweiller and Miss Magdaline Bachmann were united
in marriage November 5, 1848. Mrs. Detweiller was born in the German province of
Loraine on the 25th of August, 1826. She came to this country the year prior to
her marriage with our subject, which occurred at the home of his sister in
Woodford County, Ill. Of their marriage seven children were born, of whom the
following four are living: Thomas H., William H., Amelia and Matilda.
Mrs. Detweiller was removed from her sphere of
usefulness September 10, 1888, after a wedded life of forty years, and our
subject then lost one who had ever been to him all a true wife can be, and her
children a devoted mother. Her death was felt far beyond the home circle, as her
sweet, wholesome nature, thorough goodness and kindly charity had won her a warm
place in the hearts of many, and she had been an influence for much good in the
community. She was a person of serene religious faith, and in her the
Universalist Church had one of its most faithful helpers. She was an active
member of the Woman's Christian Home Mission, and also belonged to the Woman's
Relief Corps of the Old Settlers Association.
Henry Detweiller stands among our most revered
citizens, and is widely known for his unswerving integrity of character, and for
his honorable connection with the business interests of the city. He is a member
of the Odd Fellows, and also of the Grand Army of the Republic. He cast his
first vote for Gen. Taylor as President, and since the organization of the
Republican party has always been true to its colors. He reveres the name of
Lincoln, whom he knew, with honor and reverence.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
384-386, submitted by Gaile Thomas)
THOMAS L. H. DOTY. No one stands
higher in the estimation of his fellow-citizens than the gentleman whose
portrait is shown on the opposite page and whose occupation is that of a
railroad conductor, with a pleasant home in Peoria. He was born in Clermont
County, Ohio, July 17, 1846, accompanying his parents to Peoria in 1852. Here he
attained to man's estate, securing a good education and being peculiarly
fortunate in his home surroundings, by which his better qualities of mind and
character were strengthened and developed. In 1864 he began life as a railroader
by securing the position of brakeman on the Toledo, Peoria & Warsaw Road. After
a brief service he was employed by the Peoria, Pekin & Jacksonville Railroad,
and in 1867, began with the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific.
Mr. Doty was soon promoted from brakeman to regular
freight conductor, a high tribute to his capacity and honesty. In 1885 he
accepted a similar service with the Rock Island & Peoria Railroad which he still
occupies. He has been singularly free from accidents, the fact being largely due
to his own carefulness and sobriety. He is an honored member of the Order of
Railway Conductors, Ancient Order of United Workmen, and Modern Woodmen. His
religious belief is that of the Presbyterian Church, to which his wife belongs.
At the end of his trips on the road, Mr. Doty gladly
returns to his cozy home where a charming group composed of mother and four
children awaits his arrival with loving anxiety. His cherished companion bore
the maiden name of Flora N. Mounts, was born in this city, and became his wife
December 19, 1869. Their children have been named respectively, Frank A., Eva
S., Orrin A. and Charlotte.
The father of our subject was Orrin Doty, an early pioneer of Ohio, to which
State he went in 1820. Long before railroads had been built he was engaged in
staging, carrying passengers, freight and Government mail outward from
Cincinnati. His trip from New York to Ohio by the Great Lakes was one of the
romantic experiences which many pioneers enjoy. He closed his long and busy life
in March, 1876, in Peoria, where he had been living nearly a quarter of a
century.
The mother of our subject was known in her girlhood as
Miss Charlotte Heyl. She and the husband to whom she had been a devoted
companion for many years were not long divided, as she joined him beyond the
river of death in December, 1876. She was a woman of rare character and
Christian devotion, her reliance on the inspiration of the Scriptures being a
sacred legacy to her children. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), page
911, submitted by Gaile Thomas)
DOVE, J. J., butcher, residence, Brimfield, son of Isaac and Sarah Dove; father, native of Pennsylvania ; mother, of Virginia. The subject of this sketch was born in Custer county, Pa., September 10, 1836. Immigrated with his parents to Ohio, where he remained until 1862, when he came to Peoria county, where he engaged in farming, coal digging, and tile laying. Married for his first wife Miss Nancy Ault. She was born in Ohio, in 1840; died in 1869. The fruit of this marriage was five children—two boys and three girls; three living, viz: Susan, Sarah M., John Edward. Second wife, married Frances Hadlock; she was born in Ohio, September 30, 1847. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 717, submitted by Janine Crandell)
JOSEPH DOUBET is classed among the prominent
members of the farming community to whom this county owes much for its present
high position as a wealthy and highly improved section of the country. He is one
of the foremost farmers and greatest land owners of Limestone Township, where he
has a well-developed farm, that is one of the best in its neighborhood in all
its appointments.
Our subject is a son of Joseph Doubet, who was in his day one of the most
prominent and active pioneers in this county. He was born in France and received
a fine education in the fair land of his nativity. He emigrated to this country
in an early day of its settlement, accompanied by his family and settled in
Kickapoo Township, about one and one-half miles north of where our subject now
lives. A man of his force of character and ability necessarily was pushed to the
front, and we find him taking quite a conspicuous part in the political and
public life of the place. He was at one time Mayor in Belford, France, and he
was among the leading Democrats of the vicinity, and held many offices. He was
very much interested in the politics of his adopted country and at one time swam
the Kickapoo Creek at the risk of his life that he might cast his vote for a
favorite candidate. His death here in 1857, was a severe blow to the interests
of the community.
The subject of this biography was born in France near Belford, in 1839, and
was but four years old when his parents brought him to the wilds of Peoria
County, and here he was reared to manhood in their pioneer home. At the time of
his coming here this was the home of the Kickapoo tribe and Indians were more
frequent than whites. He received no schooling except from an old lady by the
name of Pennington, who taught a school on Sunday for the benefit of the
children of the settlers, who took a great interest in the work. Besides the
instruction he thus received his school days could well be included in three
months. In 1851 he took upon himself the duties and obligations of wedded life
by his marriage in that year to Mary Ann, daughter of Nicholas and Mary Ann
(Smith) Marie. They were both of French birth and died when she was very young,
after coming to this county. They had settled here the year after Mr. Doubet
came, and Mrs. Doubet was reared near her future husband.
Mr. Doubet bought his farm in Limestone Township, subject to a debt of
$15,000, and during the war both he and his wife worked very hard almost day and
night and made much money, and in time had the four hundred and eighty acres of
land free from incumbrance. Mr. Doubet's prosperity continued and he added to
his farm until he now possesses six hundred acres of as fine land as any in the
State, all under excellent improvement.
Our subject and his wife have eleven children living: Joseph, a farmer of
Limestone, who is married and has eight children; Mary, wife of John Boyer, who
lives near her father; Peter, who is married and has five children; Malinda,
widow of Thomas Fahey of Limestone Township, and the mother of four children;
Eliza, wife of Daniel Hanlon, and the mother of six children; Julia, the next in
order; Cicely, the wife of Benjamin Dornbus; Nicholas, at home; Henry, the next
in order; Ida, the wife of William Mitchell; Eddie, at home. The greatest grief
of the wedded life of Mr. and Mrs. Doubet has been in the death of their
daughter Emma, who was next to Henry in order of birth, and died at the age of
twelve years.
Mr. Doubet follows in his father's footsteps in regard to his political
affiliations and is a strong Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic Church at
Kickapoo, but takes no active part in church matters. Having spent the most of
his life in the United States and reared under the institutions of this
Government he knows no other home and his patriotism recognizes no other
country. He occupies a substantial place among the citizens of his township and
his sturdy enterprise, great labor and shrewd financial tact, have been
prominent factors in its growth.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
363-364, submitted by Janine Crandell)
DUBUIS, OSCAR F.;
Superintendent Glen Oak Park: born in Canton Vaud, Switzerland, June 15, 1849:
son of John and Rosalie (LUGRIN) DUBUIS, natives of Vaud. The father was a
professor of natural sciences and a teacher in the public school. The mother's
people were farmers. Oscar DUBUIS graduated from the common schools and took a
two years' course at the Polytechnic Institute at Winterthur, Switzerland. The
succeeding four years he spent as apprentice to an architect. In 1870 he came to
America and settled in Chicago and took a position as architect and first-class
draughtsman with W. L. B. JENNY, Engineer of the West Park, where he remained
until after the fire of 1871, when, for want of funds, the city discontinued
work on the Park. After a year spent in W. L. B. JENNY's office, he was
appointed Engineer and Superintendent of the West Chicago Park system, where he
remained until 1893 - a term of twenty-one years. In the latter year, in common
with many others, he was removed for political reasons, but soon after became
Engineer of Lincoln Park, where he remained one year. In 1895 he accepted an
invitation to come to Peoria, where, as Engineer and Superintendent of Parks, he
has transformed wild hills and glens into beautiful parks.
He was married in Chicago, December 9, 1874, to Fanny GIRARD, daughter of Jason
GIRARD, a native of California. They have six children: John O., Ernest G.,
Frances M., Pearl, Harry F., and George S. Mr. DUBUIS is a member of the
Lutheran Church. His family are Episcopalians. He is a Republican, a Mason, and
a member of the Elks. [NOTE: According to all census records, Jason GERARD
(GIRARD) claims he was born in NY or NJ. Fanny states on her Chicago marriage
license that she was born in Greenpoint, Kings, NY.]
(SOURCE: History of Peoria County,
Illinois by Bates Vol. 2, page 585, submitted by Pam Villafuerte)
GEORGE W. DUMARS, Jr., is one of the most enlightened and enterprising
farmers and stock-raisers of Logan Township, and is managing his extensive
farming interests in that community after the most approved methods. He is a
Pennsylvanian by birth, born in Dauphin County, October 5, 1844, and is a son of
George W. and Eliza (Rauch) DuMars. His father was born in Harrisburg, Pa.,
February 4, 1805, coming of an honorable lineage, the DuMars family originating
in France. The mother of our subject was born in the same county as her husband,
November 5, 1812. She died in their home in the Keystone State, December 6,
1850.
George DuMars, Sr., is a son of one John DuMars, who
was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, his ancestors having left France and settled
on that Island. His wife, Jane Mills, was born in the same county as himself,
and they came to the United States in the spring of 1804, being six weeks on the
way, and took up their residence in Harrisburg, Pa. He was a weaver by
occupation and followed that calling until he was unable to compete with the
numerous factories that sprang up in this country several years after he settled
in it. Later in life he ran an hotel in Harrisburg. He and his wife were at one
time members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but subsequently united with the
Presbyterians. He was a Free and Accepted Mason. He was the father of several
children, namely, Thomas, George W., William, James, and Mary, wife of Mr.
Lambdin. The father of our subject was the only survivor of those children, and
was liberally educated in the city schools of Harrisburg and in an academy
there. At the age of twenty he adopted the profession of a teacher, and for
thirty years pursued it with success. During some period in his life he was a
clerk in a general store in Linglestown, Pa., and for a short time was in
business for himself. In the spring of 1855 he started for Illinois, traveling
by rail to Pittsburg, and thence by boat to this State, being two weeks on the
way. He lived in Tazewell County until September, when he came to Logan
Township, and purchased eighty-seven acres of land on section 7,where he dwelt
until March, 1889, when he became an inmate of the home of his son George W., on
section 9. In the meantime he had been quite prosperous in his calling and had
accumulated one hundred and ninety acres of land. For many years he was active
in public and political life. For two years he was Supervisor of the township
and also served as Assessor he was a man of strong mind, and was firm and
outspoken in his views on the issues of the day, and in early life a Whig,
joined the ranks of the Republican party after its formation. He has been a
faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years.
Mr. DuMars has been twice married, the maiden name of
his first wife, the mother of our subject, was Eliza Rauch, and she was a
daughter of John and Catherine Rauch, who were natives of Pennsylvania. Her
father was twice married, and she was the only child of his first union, and by
his second marriage he had four children. Mr. DuMars was the father of nine
children by his first marriage as follows: Catherine J., who died in childhood:
the second child died in infancy; Mary Eliza, wife of S. S. Graham; John W., who
was a member of Company B, Eleventh Cavalry, and was present at the battle of
Shiloh, and died at Memphis, Tenn., June 22, 1862; the fifth child died unnamed;
Nancy J., the wife of William O. Norvall, of McCook, Neb.; George W., William
T., and Dr. R. A. Mr. DuMars' second wife, to whom he was married March 22,
1863, was Sarah Ainsworth Allen. She was born October 5, 1805, and died
September 15, 1869. She was a consistent Christian and a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.
George W. DuMars, Jr., of whom this sketch is written,
was a lad of eleven years when he accompanied his father to this State. He was
educated in the common schools, and afterward pursued a fine course of study at
Worthing, Warner & Co.'s College, from which he was graduated with honor. He was
thus well equipped for the battle of life, and choosing the calling to which he
had been bred he purchased sixty acres of land on section 5, Logan Township, and
has ever since been a resident of this place, with the exception of two years
spent in McLean County. He had a farm in that county which he sold on his return
to this township, and he repurchased eighty acres of land, of which he afterward
disposed at an advance, and then bought all of the homestead. In the year 1888
he here purchased the eighty-acre tract where he resides on section 9, and is
now the proprietor of two hundred and forty-eight acres of land, which is in a
fine condition, its well-tilled fields yielding abundant harvests, and its neat
substantial buildings, being an attractive feature of the landscape. Mr. DuMars
has been twice married. April 9, 1868, he was wedded to Sarah E. Shepherd, a
native of Logan Township and a daughter of Nelson and Elizabeth (Rynearson)
Shepherd, who were among the earliest settlers of this county, coming here from
Pennsylvania at a very early date. He and his wife had a family of three sons
and four daughters. The wife of our subject died in the spring of 1871, leaving
one son—Charles E.
Mr. DuMars was a second time married, March 14, 1875,
taking as his wife Sarah E. McAlister, who was born in Logan Township December
21, 1853, and is a daughter of James and Elizabeth (Proctor) McAlister. Two
children have born of this union—Arthur Eugene and Cecil Ainsworth. Mr. and Mrs.
DuMars are members in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and among
the leaders in its charitable and other good works. Their home, the center of
true refinement and culture, is an attractive one, and their place in the
society of this county is among its best people. Mr. DuMars is a well-read and
educated man and holds advanced views on all subjects, particularly in regard to
politics, and since he cast his first vote for a Presidential candidate for Gen.
Grant, he has been true to the Republican party.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
209-210, submitted by Janine Crandell)
RUFUS A. DUMARS, M. D. A high rank among the professional men of Peoria
belongs to the gentleman above named, who is well skilled in therapeutical
science, possesses the abiding interest in his profession, and the scholarly
habits which lead him to continual advancement as investigation opens up a wider
field from year to year. His personal character is an honorable and upright one,
while his manners are those of the courteous and well-bred gentleman. It is
needless to say that he has many friends and a reputation second to none in this
vicinity.
The parents of our subject are George W. and Eliza
(Rauch) DuMars, who were of French and German descent respectively. The father
was born in Harrisburg, Pa., where he grew to maturity and engaged in teaching.
He afterward turned his attention to mercantile pursuits, and still later to
farming. In 1854-55 he removed to Peoria County, Ill., settling on a farm. He is
now, at the age of eighty-six years, making his home with his oldest son.
The gentleman whose name initiates this sketch, opened
his eyes to the light December 6, 1849, in Dauphin County, Pa. His early years
were spent upon a farm, his time being occupied with attendance at the district
schools and various home duties. On attaining his eighteenth year he entered the
Wesleyan University, at Bloomington, Ill., where he prosecuted his studies four
years. His taste leading him to the profession of medicine, he entered the
office of J. C. Frye, of Peoria, under whose instruction he obtained a
considerable knowledge of medical science. The first course of lectures was
taken by Mr. DuMars in the University of Pennsylvania, and his second in the
Louisville Medical College, of Kentucky. From the latter institution he received
a diploma in 1876, after which he took a third course of lectures in the
University of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1877. Returning to
Peoria, Dr. DuMars engaged in practice with his former preceptor, the connection
continuing until the death of Dr. Frye. Our subject then continued the practice
alone, retaining the former patronage of the office, and enlarging his field as
his own reputation became more thoroughly established and the population of the
city increased.
Dr. DuMars holds membership in the Peoria City Medical
Society and in the National Association of Railroad Surgeons. He is interested
in the social and benevolent orders, has identified himself with the Knights of
Pythias and the Masonic fraternity, in the latter being enrolled in Peoria
Lodge, No. 15, F. & A. M. He belongs to the Presbyterian Church, in which his
standing is most excellent.
The accomplished wife of Dr. DuMars is a native of this
city, where she made many friends as Miss Nellie Prye. She is a daughter of the
late Dr. Joseph C. and Eliza (Sterling) Frye, under whose care she developed an
estimable character. Her marriage to our subject took place June 17, 1879, and
has been blest by the birth of three children, named respectively: Eliza
Sterling, Elliot Cullender and Frabion Rhees.
(Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages
411-412, submitted by Janine Crandell)
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Updated November 28, 2005