Biographies

W

If you would like to share biographies with fellow researchers, please email me anytime! 

Thank you so much!

WASSON, JAMES W., store keeper, res. 119 McReynolds street, was born in Schenectady county, N. Y., October 3, 1842. Married Miss Lena Seetzen, daughter of Peter Antonio and Anna Marian Seetzen natives of Germany, who came to the United States in 1856. The fruit of this marriage is three children, two of whom are still living — Mary, born June 3,1875, and Frank, born September 7, 1877. Mr. W. enlisted in the 4th Iowa Cavalry Co. E. September 16, 1861, and served over three years; was mustered out as sergeant December 4, 1864. Was also on the police force in Peoria nearly seven years, and was superintendent one year. In January, 1878, he was appointed United States store keeper, which position he still holds. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, pages 699-700, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WATERHOUSE, GEO. FREDRICK, (deceased) local preacher; was born at White Lee, Saddleworth, England, March 22, 1824. His parents were James and Mary Waterhouse. The former died July 12, 1852, the latter July 3, 1849, each sixty-eight years of age. Mr. W. learned and pursued the trade of cabinet maker; for the last fifteen years of his life was governor of the Union Workhouse in Derbyshire. April 6, 1848 he married Mary Ann Thrope in the M. E. Church at Glossop. They crossed the Atlantic, landing in New York June 1, 1857, and Mr. W. died there at the house of a brother on June 9. Mrs. W. came immediately to Peoria with her children—the eldest not being eight years of age—arriving the 1st of July. The care of the family developed entirely upon Mrs. W. until the sons became old enough to assist her. The children are William Thrope, born Jan. 11, 1849; James Andrew, born May 21, 1852, and Fredrick Alexander, born April 6, 1854. All born at East Glossop, England, at the birth place of their mother. Wm. is running on the Wabash Railway, James is local agent of T. P. & W. Railway, and Andrew is in baking powder business in Albany, N. Y. James is also treasurer of Peoria Transfer Company. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 700, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

FOUNTAIN WATKINS—This patriarch of pioneers, like David of old, is the son of Jesse—that is, of Jesse Watkins, an old Virginian. His mother’s name was Elizabeth Watkins. He was born in Henry county, Virginia, on the 15th of November, l808. His father died when he was between two and three years of age. The next year his mother packed him on horseback, with his youngest sister, across the mountains to Highland county, Ohio, and in that wilderness region rented a piece of poor land, from which she attempted to support herself and her family. Of course the prospects of young Fountain were not very flattering. His mother, while here, married her second husband—Henry Dalton—a man not overstocked with energy; and the consequence was that upon Fountain fell the chief burden of caring for the family. He struggled on till nearly twenty-one years of age. On the 5th of October, 1829, they packed up and started for Illinois, arriving at Peoria on the 15th of November. Mr. Watkins says the most noticeable incident of the journey was the occurrence of his twenty-first birthday on the way.

On their arrival they settled in Farmington, Fulton county, the date whereof was November 26th, 1829. The half of the quarter section on which they began was that on which Farmington village now stands. Job Brown owned the other half. Here the subject of our biography broke prairie and mauled rails several years before the village was laid out. He seems to have been always ahead of the villages. If they came at all they came after him. He helped to build then, more, probably, than they ever reciprocated. In 1830 we find him engaged in Knox county—hired out to Mr. P. Owens. This Mr. Owens surveyed the town of Knoxville and Mr. Watkins carried the chain. He also made the shingles, hewed the logs, and helped to erect the old Court House in Knoxville.

This was the winter of the “deep snow”—from December, 1830, to March, 1831. Mr. Watkins was anxious to see home again, and so he bought him a pair of Indian snow-shoes and attempted to make his way to Farmington on top of the snow, which was very deep, and in many places drifted to the depth of twelve or fifteen feet. The journey was a very tedious and perilous one, as it turned out, and came near sending Mr. Watkins to the spirit-land. He had not proceeded far when his snow-shoes gave out—rather, one of them broke—and he had no alternative but to make his way by wallowing and crawling on the snow the rest of the way. There was but one cabin between there and Farmington, and he reached that, or rather came in sight of the light emanating from a single window in it, about two hours after dark, just as the inmates were preparing to retire to bed—the only thing which saved him for in a few moments the light would have been extinguished, and he must have perished in the snow. As it was he was badly frozen, and was fortunate in being able to avail himself of a bucket of cold water in which to immerse the frozen parts, which remedy proved effectual. He started the next morning to complete his journey, and within two miles of home, in the hazel brush at Hickory Point, fell through the deep drifts so often and became so much exhausted that he could only roll himself for some distance, till finally striking a road broken in for wood he was saved and made the rest of his way home.

He went back and finished out his year. The Black-Hawk war then breaking out, he enlisted in Captain Barnes’ company of rangers, and under Major Stillman was in the battle of Sycamere, where the Americans were defeated, and obliged to make some very rapid marking to Dixon to save their scalps.

The next event of importance was the marriage of Mr. Watkins to Miss Eliza, daughter of Jonah and Sarah Merchant, of Farmington, Fulton county, which was solemnized on the 17th of January, 1833. They have had eleven children, eight of whom are living; and the children were all born in the same log-cabin, except the youngest, who was born in their present home. They lost two sons in the army during the late war of the rebellion.

The log-cabin referred to above, made memorable by the birth therein of ten children, stood on the quarter section first purchased by Mr. Watkins in 1834, and which is part of his present homestead in Elmwood township. Adding to it from time to time, his present estate is three hundred acres. In 1847 and 1848 he built his present comfortable and substantial residence, which is surrounded by good improvements, exhibiting a striking contrast with the appearance of things in this region when Mr. Watkins took it first from the hand of nature.

Mr. Watkins is one of the best type of the early pioneers of Illinois; of strong mind and body, resolute, firm, energetic, with a certain amount of the heroic and poetic in his character; free from the hard polish of men schooled in business competitions, of generous and hospitable feelings and manly independence—in short, the patriarch of frontiersmen. He has been called the “Old Iron-Clad,” on account of his firm and radical views on the subject of slavery. Nature seems to have made him to hate the institution. He has a strong love of justice and dislike of oppression in any form, and will have free thought and free speech as naturally as he has free air. He is a Spiritualist in belief and rejoices in the conviction that “Jordan” will not be “a hard road to travel” when his friends are so near to welcome him on the other side. We believe that Mr. Watkins was one of the original advocates of this faith, if not the very first in these parts to take that ground—which is characteristic of his independence of mind, and some index to the makeup of his mental qualities and temperament. He is one of Nature’s noblemen, as Burns says, “a man for a’that.” He seems to have been endowed with a large and genial nature, and a mind which has unfolded according to its own law of development. Such minds will assert themselves in spite of all hindrances, as the plant will grow up and find the light in spite of the stone that may be laid over it.

Mr. Watkins has not been much in politics, preferring the quiet duties of home to the strifes and competitions of public life. He and his wife are both highly respected, and have done their part, not only to raise their family, but to advance the interest and progress of the community in which they live. (Atlas Map of Peoria County, Illinois, 1873, page 82, submitted by Susan Hare)

Back to top

WATSON, WM., farmer, res. Brimfield, was born in Lincolnshire, England, on the 28th day of December, 1824. When less than one year old his father died, after which he found a home with his grandparents until about fifteen years of age, and worked as a farm laborer in his native county until the Spring of 1850, when he emigrated to the United States and resumed his usual occupation near Buffalo, N. Y., and thence to Blue Bell, Pa. In April, 1855, he married Catherine Muny, who was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1829, and came to America in 1846. Immediately after their marriage they came to Brimfield, where they have resided since, and by industry and economy have accumulated a fine property. Own fifty acres of land near the village, valued at $5,000, and two houses and lots, valued at $4,000. They have six children— two sons and four daughters. Mrs. W. and three of her daughters are members of the Baptist Church. Republican in politics. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 722, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WEATHERL, EDGAR, locksmith, bell-hanger, and general repairer, 230 N. Adams street, was born in Rock county, Wis., October 2, 1840, and is the son of Amasa and Keziah (Russell) Weatherl, natives of New York State. When eight years old he moved with his parents to Peoria, and has resided there most of the time since. There he attended the common school, and served an apprenticeship to his trade. He enlisted June 19, 1861, in Company H., 8th Missouri Infantry, and joined his command in St. Louis, under Col. Morgan L. Smith. After serving about six months he was, in consequence of injuries received, transferred to hospital service at Paducah, Ky., and on his discharge in August, 1862, returned to Peoria, and in the Fall of the same year began business for himself at his present location, and has since continued it. He married in 1863 Miss Caroline Ridley, a native of Sweden, who came to America when an infant, and losing both her parents on the way landed in the country an orphan. By this marriage he has three children, Jessie D., Edith M., and Bertha R. His father is still alive, and is a resident of Arkansas. He owns his residence and lot at 1702 N. Madison street, and is a member of the local lodges of A. O. U. W. and I. O. M. A. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 700, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WEBBER, SAMUEL, foreman carpenter and car builder, C., R. I. & P, shops, residence 281 Bluff street. Was born in Devonshire, England, in March 1826; spent a large part of his early life in London, where he learned the trade. His parents were Samuel Webber and Eleanor Simmons. He married Eliza Holaway, and, after the birth of their first child, came to the United States twenty-two years ago November last, and settled in Peoria. He soon after began work for the Peoria and Oquawka R. R. Company, and about three years later, for the C., R. I. & P. Company, in whose employ he has spent seventeen years. Their family consists of four children—Elizabeth E., George S., Julia A. and Charlotte E. Mr. W. owns a homestead in the city, and is a member of Lodge 46 A. F. and A. M. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 700, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WEERS, HENRY S. (of H. S. Weers & Sons), dealers in general hardware and house furnishing goods, 1163 S. Adams street. Was born in Oldenburg, Germany, January 1, 1834, and is the son of John S. and Rindelt Maria (Clauser) Weers, natives of Hanover. He was raised, educated, and learned his trade of baker there, and in 1854 came to America with his parents, landing in New York in July of that year. They settled in Cincinnati, O., and he worked at his trade there for two years, and in 1856 came to Peoria, and after working one year at his trade, started for himself in the grocery business, and carried it on until Spring of the present year, when he went into partnership with his sons in his present business, and keeps a full line of stoves, shelf hardware, tinware, and house furnishing goods. He married in Peoria, in 1856, Miss Regina Benedina Frayer, who was born in Prussia in February, 1833, by whom he has had seven children, four now alive—John, Anton, Henry and Theodore. The two eldest are his partners in business. He owns three stores, with the lots on which they stand, on the corner of South Adams and Peoria streets. Mr. and Mrs. Weers are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 700, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WEISBRUCK, JOSEPH, boot and shoe dealer, 400 S. Washington street. Was born in Prussia, April 4, 1822. Came to America in the Spring of 1852, and landed in New York, where he remained a short time, then went to Buffalo, N. Y., where he forked at his trade three years, and in 1855 came to Peoria, one year later commenced his present business in company with his brother, who remained with him four years. Married Miss May Schutz. She was born in Hessen, Germany, 1827; by this marriage there were six children, three living Carrie, Lizzie and Louis R., members of the Catholic Church. Mrs. Weisbruck died April 1, 1874. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 701, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WELLS, HENRY W. MAJOR, attorney at law, is the son of John H. and Julia (Tracey) Wells. His father was a merchant, formerly of Oswego county, N. Y. In the Fall of 1839 he removed his family to Wethersfield, Henry county, Ill., where he died in 1844, aged about fifty-nine. His grandfather, J. H. Wells, was a Unitarian minister of Brattleboro, Vt., who emigrated from England in company with Dr. Priestly, the author and chemist. Julia (Tracey) Wells was the daughter of Dr. Ebenezer Tracey. Her mother was the daughter of Gen. Artemas Ward. After the death of her husband, owing to the educational facilities of Galesburg, Ill., Mrs. Wells removed thither with her family, consisting of four sons and one daughter. At the age of seventeen Henry went to Peoria, Ill., and entered the employ, in a general merchandise establishment, of Pettengill & Babcock. In 1851 he entered the National Law School (then at Balston, but afterwards removed to Poughkeepsie, N. Y.), where he graduated in 1853 ; after which he was admitted to the New York bar. He then returned to Peoria and read in the law office of Messrs. Johnson & Blakesley, teaching school in Winter seasons till 1855, when he removed to Cambridge, Henry county, Ill., entered upon the practice of law, and very soon did an extensive business. In 1862 he enlisted in the 112th Illinois Infantry as a private. On the regular organization of the regiment he was made adjutant. In 1863 he was promoted to the rank of major, and made chief of artillery of the 23d Army Corps, and had command of a portion of the line of defense at the siege of Knoxville. He was also chief of artillery on the staff of General J. D. Cox, in the Atlanta campaign. His military career ceased with the close of the war. In June of 1865 he returned to Peoria and opened a law office. Since then Wells is now candidate for attorney general of the State. He votes with the Republican party. In 1869 and 1870 he was a member of the Constitutional Convention. He was married September 8, 1859, to Mary, daughter of A. H. Showers, of Cambridge, Ill. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 701, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WESTON & CUMMINGS, undertakers, 415 Main street. Mr. Weston was born in the State of New York, June 12, 1847, and has been engaged in his present business in Peoria for a number of years; three years in business for himself, and two years in the firm of which he is a member. Mr. Cummings was born at Pleasant Hill, Ill., November 26, 1851, and is the son of Samuel P. Cummings; married, September 10, 1873, Miss Abigail Francis, daughter of John and Mary Francis, of Niagara county, N. Y., by whom he has had three children, two now alive — Emma G. and Mabel. He has been twelve years in the business in Peoria. The firm has been in existence about two years, and claim to do two-thirds of the undertaking business in the city and vicinity. They carry a full and select line of coffins, caskets and general undertakers' supplies. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 701, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WELCHER, JOHN, saloon, 109 Plank road. Was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 8, 1830, and came to America in 1850, landing at New York, May 2, of that year. For the first six months he worked at his trade of locksmith in New York city, and removed thence to Wayne county, Pa., where he opened a shop for himself and continued it for about one year, coming in 1852 to Peoria, He worked as a laborer for some years, and in 1860 again took up his trade for eight months. Then worked in a malt house till 1862, when he enlisted in the 82d Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served with it eighteen months at the front. He was taken prisoner at Gettysburg and held for six weeks, being then sent to Washington on parole. After a short visit home he returned South, and after remaining there about one and a half years returned to Peoria, where he has ever since resided. He married in 1851 in Wayne county, Pa., Miss Magdalen Schlager, a native of Bavaria, born there in 1817, by whom he has had three children, two now living — Barbara, Catherine and Louis (deceased). He was divorced from his wife, and married, January 25, 1880, Mary Oswald, who was born in France in 1830, Mr. Welcher owns property to the extent of about $4,000. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 701, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WELLBROCK, CLAUS (of Wellbrock & Frederick), blacksmith and horseshoer, head of Walnut street, was born in Hanover, Germany, June 28, 1848, and is the son of Martin and Anna Wellbrock. When eighteen years of age, he came to America, and resided in New York till 1869, and then came to Peoria, February 19, of that year. He learned his trade in Germany, and worked at it most of the time he was in New York State. He started in business for himself about eighteen months ago, and conducts with his partner a general wagon repair and horse shoeing business. He married in Peoria, October 13, 1872, Magatha Kuck, a native of Germany, by whom he has had five children, four now living : Martin Henry, Henry Edward Rudolph (deceased), Carl Edouard Johan Rudolph, Rudolph and Herman. He is a member of German Methodist Episcopal Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 701-702, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WELTE, FERDINAND (of F. Welte & Co.), grocery and saloon, 521 S. Adams street, was born in Baden, Germany, October 18, 1833, and is the son of Lawrence and Elizabeth (Yeager) Welte, natives of Baden. He was raised and went to school there, and also learned the trade of baker; came alone to America in 1854, landing at New Orleans in February of that year; went up the river to St. Louis, and after a stay of a few days, came on to Peoria and has ever since resided in it, and still does business in the same block in which he first settled. For the first four years he worked at his trade, and then went into partnership with his employer, and, after six years, started his present business. He carries a stock of general family groceries, notions, queensware, wines, liquors, etc., and does a large business. He married in November, 1864, Elizabeth Kingerick, a native of Illinois, who has borne him five children, four of them now alive: Charles, Emma, Elizabeth and Albert. Is a member of the Catholic Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 702, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

JOSEPH P. WERNER. For a period of twelve years Joseph P. Werner has been junior partner in the well known firm of Walker & Werner, carriage and automobile builders. He was born in Peoria, September 22, 1873, and is the son of Valentine and Catharine Werner. At the usual age he entered the public schools, wherein he passed through the consecutive grades until he felt it incumbent upon him to provide for his own support, at which time he entered business life. He was then, in fact, very young to assume the burdens and responsibilities that are to be met with in the business world but necessity and ambition both urged him to the step and for ten years, from the age of eleven to the age of twenty-one, he was employed in the office of the Manhattan Distilling Company of Peoria. On leaving that position he became shipping clerk with the American Glucose Company, with which he continued for six years, after which he entered into partnership with John Walker, in 1900, under the present firm style of Walker & Werner. They have since conducted a carriage and automobile manufactory and repair shop and their business has steadily developed. They were originally located at Nos. 211-215 Hamilton street, where they remained until September, 1909, when the new building which they had been erecting was ready for occupancy. Its situation is at Nos. 207-213 Fayette street and this removal to a larger building indicates something of the growth of their trade. They have a fine modern two-story brick structure well equipped for office and factory purposes. It has a frontage of one hundred feet and a depth of seventy-two feet and its equipment includes all that will facilitate their trade. Thoroughness is demanded on the part of all their employes and the substantial character of their manufactured goods insures them a liberal sale. They now employ twenty-five workmen and the business returns to them a gratifying annual income. Mr. Werner's long experience as an office man naturally led him to assume the office management of the business, while Mr. Walker, trained in the practical lines of the trade, superintends the manufacturing. Thus the labors of the one ably supplement and round out the efforts of the other and their interests are conducted with the utmost harmony.
     On November 6, 1894, Mr. Werner was united in marriage to Miss Ida Lane, of Peoria, and they now have two children, Ralph and Russell. Mr. Werner is well known in fraternal circles, holding membership with Victor Lodge, K. P., with the Modern Woodmen Camp, the Royal Neighbors and the Travelers' Protective Association. He has been a lifelong resident of this city and his record commands the admiration of those who know aught of his career, for he started out empty-handed and has depended entirely upon his resources and ability for the attainment and achievement of success. (Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages 35-36, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

CHARLES R. WHEELER. Honored and respected by all, there is no man who occupies a more enviable position in the business and financial circles of Peoria than Charles R. Wheeler, the president of the First National Bank. It has not been his success alone that has placed him in high regard but rather the straightforward business policy which he has ever followed and the utilization of methods which never seek nor require disguise. He has been a resident of this city since 1851, coming here when a youth of ten years. His birth occurred on a farm near Kenton, Hardin county, Ohio, January 22, 1841, his parents being H. N. and Matilda (McCoy) Wheeler. The father was born in Scioto county, Ohio, in 1811, and his parents were Amos and Elizabeth (Snow) Wheeler, the former of Wheelersburg, Ohio, and the latter a native of Connecticut. When eleven years of age H. N. Wheeler left his native county and removed with his parents to Monroe county, Ohio, where he resided until sixteen years of age, when upon the death of his father he went Burlington, where he completed his education. Five years were thus passed, after which he returned to Marion county and soon afterward embarked in merchandising, in which he continued until 1851. That year witnessed his arrival in Peoria. Some years before—in 1837—H. N. Wheeler was married in Hardin county, Ohio, to .Miss Matilda McCoy, a native of Putnam, Muskingum county, that state. Following his arrival in Peoria he opened a wholesale grocery house under the firm style of Wheeler, Sloan & Company, and continued in the business for five or six years, after which he sold out. For many years he was engaged in the real-estate and banking business, in which connection he gained prominent recognition as a leading business man of that city. For several years he was a director in the Second National Bank, becoming a member of its first board, but resigned that position upon his election in January, 1866, to the presidency of the Mechanics National Bank. He remained at the head of that institution for many years and succeeded in establishing it upon a safe, substantial basis, making it one of the leading financial institutions of the city. In 1879 he was elected to the presidency of the Chamber of Commerce of Peoria and was also treasurer of the Peoria Mercantile Library Association, being the first incumbent of that office. His religious faith was that of the Presbyterian church and much of his time and thought was devoted to furthering its interests. In business affairs his plans were well formulated and carefully executed so that he carried forward to successful completion whatever he undertook. Death came to him in 1884 and his wife passed away two years later.
     Charles R. Wheeler supplemented his public-school education by study in Antioch College at Yellow Springs, Ohio, after which he returned to Peoria to enter upon his business career. He joined his brother, P. C. Wheeler, in the conduct of a wholesale grocery business and was also a partner in the Barker & Wheeler Drug Company until he disposed of his interests in that enterprise in 1910. His identification with the First National Bank dates from the 1st of January, 1896, when he was called to the vice presidency of the institution. He served as its second executive officer for ten years and upon the death of John C. Proctor in 1906 was elected to the presidency. Recognizing the fact that the bank is most prosperous which most carefully safeguards the interests of its depositors, he has been most watchful in making investments and loans and has thus protected the interests of the institution and its clients. He has made a thorough study of the banking business in its various phases and his capability enables him to find ready solution for intricate financial problems.
     In 1870 Mr. Wheeler was united in marriage to Miss N. J. Williams, of Marion, Ohio, and unto them has been born a son, Charles N., who is now secretary of the Springdale Cemetery Association. The family is very prominent socially and Mr. Wheeler belongs to the Creve Coeur Club and to the Country Club. His friends find him a most congenial and entertaining companion and the social qualities of his nature constitute an even balance with his splendid business ability. Business has been his foremost interest and yet he has not allowed it to preclude his activity along other lines and especially in matters of citizenship he stands ready to aid and further any project for the general good. (Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages 8 & 11, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WHEELER, H. N. president Mechanics' National Bank, 209 Main street. Was born in Scioto county, Ohio, in 1811, and is the son of Amos Wheeler, of Wheelersburg, O., and Eliza Snow, both formerly from Connecticut. When eleven years of age he left, with his parents, his native county and came to Monroe county, O., residing there until sixteen years of age, at which time his father died, and he removed to Burlington where he completed his education, during a residence of five years, then returned to Monroe. Shortly afterwards he engaged in the mercantile business, until 1851, in which year he came to Peoria. He was married in Hardin county, Ohio, in 1837, to Miss Matilda McCoy, a native of Putnam, Muskingum county, O., by whom he has had four children, two now living: P. C. Wheeler, now sole proprietor of the late firm of Singer & Wheeler, and C. R. Wheeler, banker, in Cambridge, Ills. A few years after coming to Peoria, he engaged in business as wholesale grocer, under the name of Wheeler, Sloan & Co., and continued for five or six years and did a large business; sold his interest, and since then has been engaged in real estate and banking business. He was for several years director of the Second National Bank — was one of the original directors, and upon his election as president of the Mechanics' National Bank, in January, 1866, resigned his position. He has been president of the Mechanics' National Bank for fourteen successive years, and has assisted in guiding its fortunes through many critical periods. In 1879, was president of Chamber of Commerce, of Peoria; also treasurer of Peoria Mercantile Library Association, since its organization. Is a member of the Presbyterian Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 702, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WHITE, AUSTIN, engineer, res. 1703 N. Madison street, was born in Worcester, Mass., in December, 1841, where he was raised, and came to Peoria shortly before the war. Shortly afterwards he entered the employ of the C. R. I. & P. R. R., and has been with that company for over fifteen years. He married, Jan. 14, 1869, Miss Rachel Webster, a native of Illinois, by whom he has had six children, four boys and two girls, five of them now living. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 702, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WHITE, BARRETT, justice of the peace and real estate agent, 100 N. Adams street, was born in Todd county, Ky., March 26, 1824. and is the son of Daniel and Eliza (Anderson) White. His father was a native of Virginia. In October, 1835, the family moved to Illinois, settling at Washington, Tazewell county, in the April following, where they resided about ten years, and in March, 1847, came to Peoria, where he has ever since resided. His schooling he got in Tazewell county, and he also learned there the trade of brick making, and worked at that and at the cooper trade for some years after coming to Peoria. He was elected alderman from the fourth ward of Peoria in 1859, and held that office at various times for ten years; was elected justice in 1862, and has ever since held the office; was city marshal under Mayor Ballance in the years 1855 and '56. He married, April 9, 1877, Mary E. Ayers, a native of Ohio. Mr. White's father died in 1837, but his mother is still alive and a resident of the city, at the age of eighty-three years. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 702, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WHITE, WILLIAM C. The banking institutions of a city are a fair index of its commercial character and financial strength, through the successive stages of its history. They are the centers around which all the movements of trade gravitate, and by which they are regulated. Since the earliest times in her history, Peoria has been peculiarly fortunate in respect to her banks. As a rule her institutions have been founded upon strict business integrity and commercial honor. Their policies have been policies of honesty and fair dealing, and their histories have been histories of nourishing progress, founded upon the solid base of financial integrity. But the honesty, loyalty and financial solidity of any institution is directly dependent upon the personal qualities of the men who compose them. The officials of a bank make its policy, direct its business, regulate its course, and are the compelling force behind its failure or success.
    William C. White, the subject of this sketch, is a banker of the type which makes for the greater industrial and financial magnitude of the city. He is at present the president of the Illinois National Bank, located at the corner of Fulton and Adams streets, and is carrying out the policy of his predecessors in making that institution one of the safest and most solid banks in the city.
    William C. White was born in Peoria in 1868, the son of Andrew J. and Amanda C. White. His father was a prominent contractor of this city, having come here from Pennsylvania in 1856. William C. White's early education was received in the primary and grammar schools of this city, and was supplemented by three years of work in the Peoria high school. Mr. White left school in his junior year to accept a position in the implement firm of George M. Moore & Company, where, however, he remained but a short time, resigning in a few months to become a messenger in the Commercial National Bank. Mr. White was nineteen years of age at that time, and has remained in the banking business ever since with the exception of two years which he spent on the farm, and has now attained one of the highest positions that the city of Peoria has to offer. He is possessed of a rare, if not distinctive business character. Thoroughly acquainted with the details of his profession, he is today undoubtedly among the men whose lives and personal exertions have done so much toward the material and commercial prosperity of Peoria.
    Mr. White spent several years with the Commercial National Bank, leaving that institution to join his father on his farm six miles out of Peoria. Here Mr. White remained for two years, at the end of which time he returned to Peoria, and entered the Peoria Savings Loan & Trust Company as teller. From that time on, his rise was rapid. His life is a fair example of the rewards which are the result of concentrated industry and hard work. Mr. White soon gained the confidence and respect of all with whom he came in contact, and his excellent banking ability, and his thorough acquaintance with the details of the business led to his appointment as assistant cashier upon the organization of the Illinois National Bank in 1900. His rise in this bank has been steady since that time He was elected cashier in 1908, and took up his present position as president in January, 1912, upon the death of Frank Trefzger.
    In 1896 Mr. White married Miss Mary Bigham of Peoria, and they are the parents of two children, Herbert and Virginia, both at present students at the White school.
    Mr. White has never taken any active part in political controversies or sought public office, although his political affiliations have always been consistently republican. The responsibilities of business engross his whole attention but he takes an intelligent interest in public policies and is an active supporter of anything conducive to the municipal improvement of the city. He is a prominent member of the Board of Trade, and is the treasurer of the Association of Commerce. Mr. White is also well known in social circles of the city, and is a member of all the important clubs of this character, holding membership in the Creve Coeur Club, the Illinois Valley Yacht Club and the Peoria Country Club.
    During his years of banking activity in Peoria, Mr. White has gained for himself a reputation for strict honesty, and fair dealing among his friends and business acquaintances. He is known to be a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. He is ready to meet any obligation of life with the confidence and courage that comes of conscious personal ability, right conception of things and a habitual regard for what is best in the exercise of human activities. (Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, page 483, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WHITFORD, S. G. builder and contractor, 909 Fourth street, was born in Herkimer county, N.Y., Jan. 18, 1828, and is the son of Oliver Whitford and Polly Vanderburgh, natives of New York State. He was raised and educated there, and learned his trade of carpenter in Oswego, N. Y., where he resided till 1853, in which year he went to Canada in the employ of the Grand Trunk R. R., and superintended, during the next twelve months, the erection of their shops at Cornwall. He then went to Chicago, and was for the next two years with Cyrus and Wm. McCormick, coming, in the Fall of 1857, to Peoria, where he has since resided. He married, in Jan., 1856, at Sundford, Conn., Miss Amelia Scofield, a native of Connecticut, who was born in Sept., 1828, by whom he has had three children, only one of them now alive: Frank Ernest, born Oct. 7, 1862. Since coming to Peoria, he has carried on quite an extensive business as builder and contractor, doing some seasons as high as $150,000 worth of work. Mr. Whitford is president of the Mechanics' and Builders' Exchange; owns residence and lot at above number, and house and lot adjoining. Mrs. Whitford is a member of the Congregational Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 702-703, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

MARCUS WHITING, M.D. Although not yet thirty years of age, Dr. Whiting has an excellent standing in the profession which he has chosen, and is regarded by his fellow-citizens as an honor to the city in which he has made his home. He came to Peoria immediately after his graduation and during the few years which have elapsed since that time he has built up a good practice by his pleasing personal traits and his skill in his chosen work. His natural acumen added to the thorough instruction which he received, makes him judicious in the use of Therapeutical agents, and his desire to reach the highest position possible keeps him on the alert to add to his knowledge by observation and study.
     Dr. Whiting was born in La Fayette County, Mo.. August 22, 1860, and being a son of a minister, received his education in various schools as his father was called from place to place. His father, the Rev. Charles Whiting, D. D., is now in charge of the Baptist Church in Canton where he has been for the past twelve years. His instruction was more serviceable to his son than all others he received, as it inspired him with the love of learning as well as stored his mind with facts and principles. When eighteen years old young Whiting began reading medicine with Drs. Button and Fleming in Canton, and he afterward entered Rush Medical College in Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1883.
     The social and benevolent nature of our subject has led him to identify himself with various organizations in the principles of which he concurs. He is a Mason, a member of the Knight of Pythias, also of the Select Knights of the Associated Order of United Workmen, the Knights and Ladies of Honor, the Modern Woodmen and the Red-Men. His political adherence is given to the Democratic party. For three years he has held the position of Health Officer for Peoria.
     The mental ability and culture and the womanly graces and accomplishments of Miss Mattie Garthwaite, daughter of Luther and Rosa Garthwaite, of Indianapolis, Ind., won the regard of the young physician and his feeling being reciprocated they were united in marriage January 24, 1888. A daughter—Ethel Lee—adds her infantile grace to the charms of home. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages 370-371, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

STEDMOND WHITNEY, has a well-cultivated farm on section 15, Elmwood Township, and holds an honorable place among the men of character and principle, who have had the making of the township, and are active in sustaining its substantial prosperity as one of the richest farming centers in a county noted for its exceptionally fine agricultural resources. He is a notable figure in the public life of his community as one of its leading and most intelligent officials, who performs his civic duties with an eye single to the good of the public.

Mr. Whitney is a native of Allegany County, N.Y., his birth occurring there November 26, 1823. His father, Horace Whitney, was a native of Vermont and a farmer. His mother, Hannah (Town) Whitney, was also a native of the Green Mountain State. His parents were there married and later removed to New York State, where they made their permanent home. A whole family of Whitneys had emigrated from the old home among the hills of Vermont, including the father and seven brothers, uncles of our subject, and they located near together in Allegany County, forming a settlement that is known to this day as Whitney’s Valley. The mother of our subject died in 1851m and the father rounded out his life in 1872. They were the parents of eight children, of whom five are now living.

The boyhood days of Stedmond Whitney, of whom we write, were passed in New York, and his education was gleaned in the common schools. He gained a good practical knowledge of agriculture in all its branches and after attaining manhood still remained at home with his parents, and his labors were given for the benefit of his father’s farm until he was thirty years old. The first few years of his married life were spent in his native State, but in the spring of 1857, he decided to take up his residence in Illinois, to avail himself of its marvelous farming facilities. He first settled in Elmwood Township, but after a two years residence here removed to Elba Township, Knox County. Six years later he returned to Elmwood and has ever since made his residence here, and has always carried on farming. When he came here he was not in very good circumstances and he was obliged to rent land for a period of eight years. At the expiration of that time he purchased a residence and eight acres of land in Elmwood, but still continued to rent farms. In the spring of 1875, he traded for his present farm. It originally comprised both prairie and timber, and was already improved when it came into his hands. Its one hundred acres are all well tilled, and supplied with necessary buildings, and here he carries on mixed farming, having standard grades of stock, and is constantly adding improvements to his place.

Mr. Whitney is connected by marriage with the Ewait family, the first pioneers of this township. His wedding with Miss Mary Campbell was solemnized December 27, 1854, and has been one of exceeding happiness. Mrs. Whitney’s parents were Jonas and Sovena Campbell, who were natives respectively of New Hampshire and Pennsylvania. They had seven children, four of whom are still living. Their daughter, Mrs. Whitney, was born July 28, 1830. Mr. and Mrs. Whitney have been blessed with a fine family of three children: Hollis, who married May McCann and lives on section 16; Florence and Frank. All have been given liberal educational advantages and are graduates of the Elmwood High School. Frank has been engaged in the teacher’s profession for the past two years, and Miss Florence also holds a teacher’s certificate.

Mr. Whitney’s intelligence and character as a man of honor and sterling integrity give him a high place in this community. His fellow-citizens, appreciating his wisdom and genuine worth often call him to public life, and he has well served the township in various capacities. He is now Trustee of Elmwood Township, this being his second term in that office, and he has also been Assessor and Township Collector for several years. While a resident of Elmwood City he was a member of the Council. He is classed with the active politicians of this vicinity, and has always been associated with the Republicans. In his early manhood he supported the Whig party, but on the formation of the Republican party transferred his allegiance to it and he voted for its first candidate, John C. Fremont. His sons are also both stanch Republicans, and Hollis has been a delegate to county conventions. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages 314-315, submitted by Susan Hare)

Back to top

CALEB WHITTEMORE is a noble type of the intelligent, straightforward, enterprising natives of New England who have borne so important a part in the upbuilding of this county, and for the space of half a century he has represented its industrial interests as a gunsmith and a whitesmith and is still actively engaged in the latter branch in the city of Peoria, where he has always resided ever since he came to this State fifty years ago. For the last thirty years, he has been stationed where he is at present, and the Whittemore repair-shop is a well-known landmark in the neighborhood.
     Our subject was born in Connecticut, August 24, 1817, to Daniel and Sarah (Corbin) Whittemore, natives respectively of Massachusetts and Connecticut. The Whittemores are of Scotch origin, our subject's great-grandfather, having come from Scotland, he being one of the historical three brothers that play so conspicuous a part in the early genealogical accounts of so many New England families, these brothers locating in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Daniel Whittemore was a man of much mechanical ingenuity and was a wheelwright, millwright, carpenter and joiner. He was a life-long resident of Connecticut, dying September 3, 1870, at the venerable age of seventy-nine years, five months and ten days. He came of a long-lived race and we here note the remarkable fact that his grandfather lived to be one hundred and fifteen years of age, and when ninety years old, renewed his youth in so far as that nature then furnished him with a new set of teeth.
     Caleb Whittemore, of whom we write was reared to mechanical pursuits and very early in life became self-supporting, at the age of nine and one-half years he was placed in a cotton factory, and was employed in cotton factories until he was nearly eighteen years old.   He then went to Southbridge, Mass., to learn the trade of gunsmithing, and at the age of twenty-two, left New  England for the West, shrewdly thinking that men of his calling would be in demand in a newly settled country. He arrived in Peoria May 17, 1840, and at once started in businesses a gunsmith, and has hardly abandoned it yet, although after he had been here eight or nine years he took up whitesmithing in connection with it and gradually dropped gunsmithing. In the fifty years that he has been here he has had four different places for his work, but for the last thirty years has occupied the same shop. The encouragement, counsel and active assistance of a good wife have not been lacking to make our subject's life a success, as he was married April  7, 1841, to Miss Maria Russell, and for nearly half a century they have traveled life's road together and have shared its griefs and joys. Mrs. Whittemore comes of an old New England family, her parents, Smith Barrett and Roxanna (Alton) Russell having been born in Vermont and Connecticut respectively. Her father was a carpenter by occupation, and in 1836, removed with his family to Peoria, and  became a pioneer of this section of the country. Our subject and wife have three children living, namely: Violetta, wife of James McSkimin; Mary Frances, wife of Philip B. Keeler. and William, who is with his father in business.
     Mr. Whittemore is a  man of superior intellect, possessing a clear active brain, and though mostly self-educated is a well informed  man. He has a particular talent for mathematics, and the first winter after his marriage he took up the study of arithmetic and went through Smith's old arithmetic without any assistance, mastering its most intricate problems, and has today a better knowledge of mathematics than many a college graduate. Men living in Peoria who had college educations often came to Mr. Whittemore to ask his assistance in solving difficult sums. His personal character and standing in the community is of the highest, his long residence in this county bringing him an extensive acquaintance and many tried and true friends who appreciate his manliness and genuine worth. Asa good citizen should be, he is interested in the public weal of his country and is a sturdy advocate of the policy of the Republican party. (Portrait and Biographical Album of Peoria County, 1890, pages 395-396, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

JAMES WICKWIRE, one of the oldest and most respected of the early settlers of this county, was an early pioneer of Trivoli Township, with whose interest he has been closely connected for many years as one of its most practical and successful farmers and stock-raisers, and here he is passing the closing years of a long and useful life in retirement in one of its most pleasant homes.

Grant Wickwire, father of our subject was born in Litchfield County, Conn., August 7, 1781, at South Farms. His father, James Wickwire, was also a native of that State, where he carried on business as a tanner and currier, until his death. He reared a large family, and two of his sons-Barnes and Alvin, enlisted for five years in the Regular United States Army and took part in the War of 1812. The Wickwires trace their ancestry back to the Morehouse family of Scotland. The father of our subject was a shoemaker by trade and also followed farming in his days. In 1807, he moved to Oneida County, N.Y., and located in Florence. He bought a farm of seventy acres north of Camden, improved it and engaged in its cultivation until he retired. Our subject went to bring him here and brought him as far as Southport where they stopped at the house of one of his sons, where he was stricken with paralysis and died October 20, 1858, at the age of seventy-seven years. He was a member of the State militia that was called out at Sacketts Harbor in the War of 1812. He was a Congregationalist in religion and a Democrat in politics.

Mary Throop, mother of our subject, was born December 8, 1782, in Litchfield, Conn., and was a daughter of Benjamin Throop, a native of that State, and a farmer and mill owner. He was of French descent. The mother came here and died at the home of a son in Orion Township, Fulton County, February 12, 1860. She had ten children, one of whom died when a babe; the others were named: Mary, James, Benjamin. Sarah, Deborah, Alvin, Horatio, Sabrina and Merritt.

James Wickwire, was born near Florence in Oneida County, N.Y., February 1, 1808. Reared on a farm he used to help burn brush, drive oxen, plow and cut grain with a sickle. He was educated in the subscription schools and had to ride on horseback a distance of three miles to the schoolhouse. When he was twenty years old he left home to serve an apprenticeship to the trade of carpenter. He subsequently worked at that and at farming, buying sixty acres of land. But it was stony and hard to cultivate, so he sold it and in 1833 took a trip to Michigan, going by canal to Buffalo, and by boat to Detroit and thence set out on foot through the wilderness of Oakland and Shiawassee Counties. But he found the country too much infested with ague and returned home. The next spring he came here, traveling by water to Cleveland, thence on the canal to Portsmouth, whence he went to Cincinnati, and from there by river to St. Louis and to Peoria, which he found a small place of about one hundred and seventy-five acre inhabitants.

He was three weeks and five days in performing the journey hither, arriving June 3, 1834. He located in Peoria, and engaged in carpentering. In 1835 he helped raise the cupola on the old court house. June 25, 1835, he entered one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 7, Trivoli Township, from the Government. The settlers in the township at the time were Alonzo Green, Joel Brown, James, David and Isaac Harkness, two of the Clark family and Eli Wilson. Our subject had helped build the jail in Peoria, and here he erected a small frame house the timber for which he had hewed and split himself, and drove every nail.

Mr. and Mrs. Wickwire, were the first couple ever married in this township, and the ceremony that made them one was performed Mary 17, 1837, in the home in which they now live., by the Rev. George Sill. Mrs. Wickwire’s maiden name was Julia Wilson, and her father was Eli Wilson, a native of Harrington, Conn. Her grandfather, also bearing that name, was a farmer of English extraction, born in that old New England State of a prominent family. The father was educated in Yale College and in 1818, settled in the wilds of Oneida County, N.Y., where he cleared a farm, and also engaged in teaching in the schools besides being a teacher of vocal music and a leader of the choir. In 1834, he came to this county with his family at the same time that our subject came, arriving in Farmington in a prairie schooner, June 4. He became wealthy and the owner of several hundred acres of land. He was connected with the educational interests of the township and was a Whig in politics and a Congregationalist in religion. During the latter part of his life he lived retired until his death at the age of eighty-five in 1875. His wife was named Julia Candee and she was born in Connecticut, a daughter of David Candee, a large and wealthy land-owner of that State. She died in 1881, at the age of ninety-three years. Mrs. Wickwire was one of eight children and was born September 22, 1817, in Connecticut. She was well educated and was a teacher by profession and taught the first school ever taught in Farmington, which was conducted in the rudest of school-houses.

In 1856, Mr. Wickwire bought this present place of his wife’s father, and has since made many valuable improvements. His residence is a large stone, two and one-half story house, 28 x 56 feet, which he completed himself, and he has two substantial barns, one 30 x 50 feet, and other necessary buildings. The farm is fenced and is well drained with sixteen thousand tiles, and has fine orchards and groves. He gave one acre of his land for the schoolhouse. Mr. Wilson and Ed Harkness laid out a town which included part of his farm, calling it Harkness. But it is now extinct and our subject has bought back the lots that he sold. He has rented his farm since 1875, and it is now under the management of his son. Mr. Wickwire is justly considered one of our best citizens; he has been Assessor for one year, Commissioner of Highways several years and has been Township School Trustee for a number of years. He was a member of the Union League during the war, and before that time was an active Abolitionist and was a conductor on the underground railroad and led many a negro to Rochester, on the Spoon River, on their way to Canada and freedom. He is a stalwart Republican, voted for W.H. Harrison, in 1840, and for his grandson in 1888.

Mr. Wickwire and his wife have had three children; Mary E.; Maria, who died when four years old, and Charles W. Mary married C.E. Pettit, of Henry County, and died there leaving a family of five children, four living.

Charles W. Wickwire was born in Trivoli Township, on the old homestead December 31, 1846. He was well educated in the public schools and in Lombard University at Galesburg. When he was seventeen years old, he enlisted Mary 2, 1864, in the One Hundredth and Thirty-Second Illinois Infantry, in Company D., and was mustered in at Chicago, as Corporal. He was sent with his company to Cairo, and thence to Columbus, Ky., where he engaged in skirmishes and did guard duty and was similarly engaged in Tennessee. He was sent to Chicago to be mustered out, when Gen. Forrest began his depredations in the South, and he was then dispatched to St. Louis whence he returned to Chicago, and was honorably discharged October 17, 1864.

Mr. Wickwire remained at home until his marriage October 11, 1870, to Miss Almeda Beals, a native of Clinton County, Ohio, and a daughter of Jesse and Mary A. (Bowen) Beals. Her parents came here in 1856, from their old home in New Vienna, Ohio, and located at Galesburg. Mr. Beals was out of health when he came to Galesburg, and died in that city. His widow still resides there. Mrs. Wickwire was a graduate of Lombard in the class of “68, and was teaching when she first met our subject. In 1874, he went to Central America and remained there a year, then returned home and in 1876, bought a farm adjoining the old homestead and lived there until 1877, when he removed to Prairie City, Jasper County, Iowa. He bought a farm of eighty acres, improved and fenced it during his residence there of five years. In 1882, he sold that and took up residence in Prairie City, where he managed a meat market and engaged in the stock business until he returned to his old home, and in 1883 he located on his father’s farm and has since carried it on with excellent success.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wickwire have four children: Jessie W. attended the High School at Farmington two years and was then a student at Lombard University, until she left to engage in teaching when seventeen years old, and is considered one of the best teachers in Trivoli Township; the names of the others are—Lila J., Alice W., and John W. (Portrait and Biographical Album of Peoria County, 1890, pages 830-832, submitted by Susan Hare)

Back to top

EDWARD F. WILDER has been engaged in farming and stock-raising in Radnor Township since pioneer times, and by his skill and ability as an agriculturist he has contributed not a little to its growth and material prosperity. His farm on section 12, compares favorably in all respects with the many choice farms for which this county is so celebrated. He comes of a sterling New England ancestry. His father, Lindal Wilder, was a native of Massachusetts, and his mother, Betsey Hadley, was also of New England birth. They spent their married life in Oswego County, N. Y. where they were industriously engaged in farming, and there rounded out lives of worth and usefulness. They had a family of three children, of whom our subject was the second in order of birth.
     He was born in the town of Sandy Creek, Oswego County, N. Y., February 14, 1824, and on his father's farm was reared to the life of a farmer. He resided in his native place until 1845, and then in the opening years of an active, noble manhood, came to Peoria County, seeking on these western prairies to establish a home for himself. He had come here without capital, and in order to secure means of independence, worked out by the month as a farm laborer until about 1856. He then settled on his farm on section 12, Radnor Township, which is still his home, and which he had purchased as early as 1847. He has here one hundred and eighty acres of land, which by unceasing activity and hard pioneer labor, he has developed into a fine piece of property. It is under good tillage, and he has erected commodious buildings of a substantial order for every needed purpose, has provided good machinery for carrying on farming, and conducts his interests after the most approved methods.
     When our subject first located on his farm, he was unmarried, but he was not obliged to toil alone for a great length of time, as by his marriage, April 30, 1857, with Miss Eliza J., daughter of Thomas and Margaret Hanson, natives of Ireland, he secured the active co-operation of a wife, who has been all in all to him. Mrs. Wilder's parents came to America in 1839, and were pioneers of this county, where they passed the remainder of their days. She was the third of their four children, and was born in County Kerry, Ireland, December 16, 1826. She and her husband have one daughter, Rosella M., who was born in Radnor Township, March 13, 1858. She is now the wife of Charles R. Cline, and is the mother of two children, Oscar E. and Nellie R. She remained at home with her parents until her marriage, and was carefully reared and educated.
     Mr. and Mrs. Wilder are very pleasantly situated and their attractive home is the center of a charming hospitality. By his fellow-citizens Mr. Wilder is regarded with feelings of friendship and confidence, as he is kind, considerate, and conscientious in all his dealings with them, and when any of his neighbors are in sorrow or in need, they look to him, and also to his good wife, who is held in like esteem, sure of their sympathy and help. Mr. Wilder has been School Director for three years, although he has not sought office, but has attended strictly to his business. Mrs. Wilder and daughter are among the most valued members of the Presbyterian Church. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages 639-640, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WILEY, R. W., farmer, Sec. 35, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Rockingham, Vt., December 12, 1825. Although raised a tiller of the soil, at the age of twenty he determined to change his occupation and went to Greenfield, Mass., where he learned the trimmers' trade. On the 27th of June, 1846, he married Miss Elizabeth Pulsifer, born in Rockingham county, Vt., June 2, 1826. Soon after engaged in heavy hardware business at Greenfield, and continued in the same for two years; thence to Bellows Fall, and continued in the same business until 1851; thence to Illinois, Brimfield township, and settled on the farm he now occupies, containing 200 acres, valued at $80 per acre. His wife died November 19, 1873, leaving two children — a son and a daughter. He married for his second wife Miss Sarah A. Brewer, of Chester, Vt., February 14, 1877. Mr. W. and his first wife were members of the Congregational Church. Independent in politics. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, pages 722-723, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WILEY, W. K. wholesale flour merchant, 209 S. Washington street, was born in Windham county, Vt., in 1850; is the son of George R. Wiley and Susan Johnson; father born in Vermont, mother in Massachusetts. Parents removed to Galena, Ill., when he was seven years old, where his father engaged in the dry goods trade, and was appointed postmaster, served during the war and eight years in all. W. R. was in the bank there seven years, and cashier the last three years; came to Peoria in 1876, and at once embarked in present business. He deals exclusively at wholesale, and ships to points throughout Central Illinois, having a trade of $130,000 to $150,000 a year, with a steady increase. In 1873 he married Nellie F. Day, of Galva, Ill., who has borne him one child, Roy R. Mr. W. is a member of Y. M. C. A., and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 703, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WILLIAMS, BENJAMIN H. general Western agent of White Line Transportation Company, residence 202 N. Jefferson street. Was born in Marion county, Ohio, on December 9, 1816; is the son of Benjamin Williams and Jane Hood, natives of Maryland, where they were married in 1786; settled in Chillicothe, O., in 1798, and in 1812 removed to Marion county, and in 1825 left the farm and located in the town of Marion. From the age of sixteen years Mr. W. engaged in the mercantile business, with which he was identified in Marion until 1862, when he removed to Indianapolis, Ind., and went into freight transportation for the Great Western Dispatch, on a salary of $2,400 a year; came thence to Peoria, in 1869, continuing in same business, but changing a year and a half later to the general agency of the White Line. In 1839 Mr. Williams married, in Marion, to Nancy Leonard, who has borne him eight children, six living; Elizabeth, Mrs. Jos. Dodd, of Peoria; W. B. Williams, agent of Red Line, Chicago; Ella, Mrs. Stewart, of St. Louis; Nannie, Mrs. Wheeler, of Cambridge, Ill.; Charley A., in railroad business in Chicago; and Mary, at home. Mr. and Mrs. Williams have been members of the Presbyterian Church for many years, and he is a member of the I. O. O. F. Their son, W. B. Williams, went into the United States army at the age of sixteen years, and served three years. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 703, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WILLIAMS, GEO. H. book-keeper, residence Knoxville road. Was born in Appledon, Devonshire, England, on the 11th day of May, 1845; came to the United States, March, 1869, and located in Peoria. Married Miss P. J. Bestor, July 27, 1871. She was born in the city of Peoria, February 16, 1850. Two children blessed this union; G. C. Bestor, born August 10, 1872; Harry, born September 3, 1874. Members of the Reformed Episcopal Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 703, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

JOHN WILSON. The experience of this gentleman has been a varied one and many an interesting tale might he tell of the scenes he has witnessed or participated in during former years. He occupies a pleasant residence on Pecan Street, Peoria, and within the walls of the home friends find a cordial welcome and generous hospitality dispensed with grace. The subject of this notice is at the head of the Wilson Wholesale Grocery Company which does a business of about $900, 000 per year, and is interested as stockholder or proprietor in other affairs of importance. There are few men now living in Peoria who are better versed in the growth of this city and the elements that have led to its prosperity that Mr. Wilson, who came here in boyhood and has virtually grown with the town.

In England the eyes of Henry Wilson and Martha Wood opened to the light of day, and in that grand country they grew to maturity and were united in marriage. In 1827 they emigrated to America, making their home in the Empire State until 1835, when they came to Peoria. Mr. Wilson had been a farmer in his native land, but in New York he engaged in clerking, and after coming West he resumed his old occupation, but did not long survive to pursue it, being called from time to eternity the fall after his removal hither. The family at that time consisted of nine children, four of whom yet live. They are Mrs. Jane Wham, of this city; Henry, a farmer in Nebraska; John; and William, who resides in the State of Washington.

The birth of John Wilson occurred in Poughkeepsie, N. Y. June 4, l827. In that city he obtained a part of his education, completing his studies here. For a number of years he devoted himself to farming, and he also learned the cooper’s trade with George Woodruff. When the gold fever broke out in 1850 he joined the throng of fortune seekers, and with an ox-team crossed the plains to the Eldorado on the Pacific coast. He followed mining successfully until 1852, when he returned to the States, buying cattle in Iowa and Missouri and driving them on east of the Mississippi, where their sale proved a fair speculation. He made a second trip to California, going via Panama and waling across the isthmus. On his return in 1859, he came by the way of Nicaragua, New Orleans and up the Mississippi River.

Mr. Wilson established himself in the grocery business after his return to Peoria, continuing in that line of trade two years and then entering the cattle business, buying extensively from the head waters of the Missouri, south to Texas. He now has a cattle ranch in New Mexico, which has been established about fourteen years, and in the management of which a Mr. Holcomb is associated with him. He has raised, bought and sold cattle, having a varied experience in this business as well as in other occupations. He feeds as high as seven thousand head per year. He is a member of the corporation running the Hamburg Distillery at Pekin, of which he was for a number of years President. The establishment has a capacity of twenty-five hundred bushels. The wholesale grocery business in which Mr. Wilson is interested was entered upon by him in 1885, in connection with C.E. Hale, who subsequently removed to Tacoma, Wash.

An interesting event in the life of our subject was the occasion of his marriage, June 5, 1855. His bride was Miss Emily J., daughter of Samuel Woodruff, a lady of refinement and womanly accomplishments that merit and win regard. Seven children have been born to the happy couple. Two of their offspring, Cora and Alfred, died in childhood. The living are Arthur W.; Everett W., who is in Pekin with the Hamburg Distillery; Charles S., also in that place; John A., a traveling salesman for the grocery house; and Frederick L., who remains at home.

The political affiliation of Mr. Wilson is with the Republican party. As a citizen he is reliable and public spirited; as a husband, father and neighbor, kindly and cordial; and as a business man honorable, enterprising and judicious. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages 213-214, submitted by Susan Hare)

Back to top

WILSON, LEVI, of the firm of Ballance & Co., contractors, and dealers in all kinds of cut and sawed stone, 906 S. Washington street. Was the son of John and Susannah (Davis) Wilson, natives of Worcester county, Mass., where the subject of this sketch was born, on the 15th day of May, 1817. Was reared on a farm until sixteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to learn the machinist trade, in Lowell, and remained there five years; while there helped to build the first locomotive in this country, being in 1837; then went to Boston, where he followed his trade, and worked as a journeyman for six years. In 1856 came West and located at Peoria, where he was master mechanic of the C. R. I. R. R. shops. From 1866 to 1876 was engaged in the coal trade, since which time he has been engaged in his present business. Married Miss Mary Pickerell. She was born in Durham, N. H., in 1826. Four children, two boys and two girls.  (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 703, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WILSON, WILLIAM H. corset manufacturer, 320 Fulton street  was born in 1838, in Belfast, Ireland, where he remained the first twenty years of his life; he immigrated to Canada and dealt in cattle nearly five years; thence came to Peoria county, in 1865; located at Chillicothe and engaged in buying and shipping grain in company with Richard Scholes; sold out; and clerked for Messrs. Hosmer & Wood a year; bought and sold hay for a time; came to Peoria in the Fall of 1875, and entered into present business, which has steadily grown under his judicious management; he employs fourteen to sixteen hands, and manufactures a variety of styles of corset goods, which are sold at both wholesale and retail; being shipped chiefly to the Western States. In 1866, Mr. W. married Elizabeth Flynn, a native of Dublin, Ireland. They have two living children, Beatrice and Florence. They are both members of the Reformed Episcopal Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 703-704, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

JOHN C. WOELFLE occupies a prominent place in the business circles of Peoria as the leading jeweler in the city. He has here one of the finest establishments of the kind in the State which is elegantly fitted up, and carries from $25,000 to $30,000 worth of stock. A native of Baden, Germany, our subject was born January 16, 1843, a son of John Jacob and Agnes Woelfle. John passed the early years of his life in the Fatherland, and acquired a substantial education in its schools. He was ambitious to see something more of the world, and to try life among other scenes, and left his old home and came to America in 1863. In 1871, he established himself in business here as a jeweler, and has built up a fine trade, having secured patronage of Peoria’s wealthiest citizens. He has a beautiful assortment of jewels, and the best silverware that is manufactured, and in his stock there is as great a variety as can be found in the leading stores of larger cities.

Mr. Woelfle was married to Emelia, daughter of August Hessler, an old settler of Peoria, November 1, 1888. They have here a lovely home, tastefully furnished and complete with all the modern conveniences, and its bountiful hospitality is often extended to a large circle of friends.

Mr. Woelfle is a man of more than ordinary financial ability, and in his business and social relations his energetic character and practical sagacity render him a very useful citizen. He is materially contributing to the wealth of the city by the able manner in which he is conducting his extensive business, and in public spirit and the loyal interest he manifests in the welfare of his adopted home he is in no whit behind his neighbors. (Portrait & Biographical Album of Peoria, Illinois (1890), pages 916-917, submitted by Jeff McCoy)

Back to top

KARL WOLF. Karl Wolf, proprietor and manager of the Hotel Meyer, in which connection he is proving a popular host, was born in Germany in 1874. He has followed in the business footsteps of his father, John Wolf, who was a hotel proprietor in that country. The son remained a resident of his native land until 1893, when, at the age of nineteen years, he came to America, making his way at once into the interior of the country. Settling at Peoria, he entered its business circles in connection, with Die Sonne, a German newspaper, learning the printer's trade. After he had thoroughly acquainted himself with the mechanical part of the work and had gained considerable knowledge concerning the methods of gathering news and compiling a paper, he joined leading German citizens in founding and publishing the Peoria Volksfreund, which he conducted for nine years. His business ability and enterprise were manifest in the success that attended his efforts during that period and he became well known as a prominent representative of the German press of Illinois.
     Mr. Wolf was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Meyer, a daughter of August Meyer, a hotel keeper. The wedding was celebrated five years ago and of this marriage two children have been born, Paula and Johanna. After his marriage Mr. Wolf became proprietor and manager of the Hotel Meyer, situated at the corner of Oak and Adams streets, and is numbered among the successful hotel men of the city. He belongs to the Peoria Turn Verein, Concordia Singing Society and is a director of the German free school. His prominence and popularity in the German American circles of the city are widely acknowledged. Aside from his membership connections already mentioned he belongs to the Woodmen of the World and to St. Joseph's Benevolent Society. The latter indicates that a spirit of helpfulness and broad humanitarianism rules him in his relations with his fellowmen. He came to America empty-handed and has since been forced to depend upon his own resources. He, therefore, has great sympathy with others who are starting out in life without capital and is ever ready to extend a hand of assistance where he believes that material aid will prove beneficial. (Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, page 727, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOLFF, CHRISTOFF, dairyman, 852 Plank road, was born in Hanover, Germany, November 1, 1817. Came to the United States in 1846 in a sailing vessel, was sixty days making the trip, landed at New Orleans, then by river to St. Louis, being two weeks in making the trip, having got stuck in the ice. Remained in St. Louis six years. Then came to Peoria where he worked by the day or month, and in 1865 commenced his present business and has continued in the same since. Married for his first wife Miss Elizabeth Fink. She was born in Germany in 1815, and died in 1860, leaving two children, Phillip and Mary. For his second wife married Miss Annetta Willerding. She was born in Germany, March 10, 1823. By this marriage there were two children, Joseph and Anna. Members of St. Joseph Congregation. Has a good residence and five lots valued at $5,000. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 704, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOLFORD, WILLIAM, blacksmith and horse shoer, Main street, near Ellis street, was born in Hampshire county, Va., December 6, 1843, and is the son of Peter Wolford and Elizabeth Short, natives of Virginia; is one of a family of six children. In 1855 he removed with his parents to Illinois, settling in Tazewell county, where his mother still resides. He learned his trade in Dillon, Tazewell county, and afterwards worked at it for five years in Green Valley, Sand Prairie township, in same county, coming to Peoria in the latter part of 1877. On coming here he started in business on his own account at 800 Main street, and three months ago came to his present location, where he conducts a general blacksmith and repair business. He married, August 3, 1865, in Tazewell county, Miss Caroline Scott, a native of that county, by whom he has six children — Frank, Florence, Emily, Charles and Harry. Mrs. Wolford is a member of M. E. Church. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 704, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOOD, T. J., pastor of M. E. Church, res. Brimfield, was born in Rock Island county, Ill., in 1848, and after receiving a preparatory education at Edington, that county, in 1865, entered Hedding College, Abingdon, from which he graduated in 1870, on the 27th day of February of the same year, married Miss A. E. King, who was born at Walnut Grove, Warren county, Ill., on the 9th day of September, 1851, and soon after entered the University at Fairview, Fulton county, and remained there one year; thence to Summit, Knox county, at which place a part of his work was in this county; thence to Cuba, Fulton county, where he remained two years; thence to Kickapoo, remaining there two years, and at Smithville, one year; thence to Brimfield in 1870. Is a member of the A. F. & A. M., at Yates City, having joined in 1872, and served as chaplain, and has taken an active part since. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 723, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

EDWARD N. WOODRUFF. Firm of purpose, progressive in spirit and with notable conception of the duties, obligations and opportunities of citizenship, Edward N. Woodruff well merits the honor which has come to him in a third election to the office of mayor of Peoria. Moreover, his life record stands in contradistinction to the old adage that a prophet is not without honor save in his own country, for he is a native son of the city which has three times called him to serve as its chief executive. There are those who address him in terms of familiarity which indicate long acquaintance from boyhood days; there are those who greet him with the dignity that seems to be a part of his office, but both entertain for him the respect which is given in recognition of individual character and of fidelity to principle.
     His father, Nelson L. Woodruff, was one of the pioneer residents of Peoria, arriving in this city in 1834. He was born in Chenango, New York, May 24, 1818, his parents being Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Woodruff, who on coming to this state, settled upon a farm and aided in the early agricultural development of their district. Nelson L. Woodruff at the time of the removal was a youth of sixteen years. He continued to reside upon and assist in the cultivation of the old home farm until he had reached his majority, when he began learning the cooper's trade, which he followed for some time. He afterward built the first canal boat used on the Illinois canal and named it Fort Clark. In 1855 he turned his attention to the ice business, in which, he continued successfully for almost a quarter of a century, enjoying a large trade in the handling of the output to the time of his death, which occurred October 23, 1879. His wife afterward took up the management of the business, which later was turned over to their son, Edward. Mrs. Woodruff had become a resident of Peoria in 1835. She bore the maiden name of Mary A. Monroe and was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, January 1, 1826, her parents being Samuel and Lois (Brown) Monroe, who were also natives of the Keystone state. It was on the 15th of October, 1846, that she gave her hand in marriage to Nelson L. Woodruff, and unto them were born six children, of whom two are living, the daughter being Mrs. Harriet Emerson, wife of George Emerson, of Peoria. The parents were consistent members of the First Baptist church and the father was a republican in his political views.
     At the usual age Edward N. Woodruff entered the public schools and pursued his studies in consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school. A year thereafter was devoted to range riding in New Mexico, and different lines of business claimed his attention at various periods but in early manhood he settled down to the management of the ice business which his father had established. Progressive methods constituted his control of this undertaking, as was manifest in the fact that he later erected a modern ice plant, equipped with the latest improved machinery, its location being at No. 1122 South Adams street. Mr. Woodruff is still at the head of this business, which has now grown to extensive proportions and is a source of gratifying revenue. Into other fields of activity he has extended his efforts and is now a director of the Peoria Life Insurance Company and vice president of the Peoria Tent & Awning Company. He is likewise the president of the Ice Dealers Association of the state, formed to further the interests of those connected with the trade.
     Mr. Woodruff has followed in the political as well as the business footsteps of his father, for his mature judgment has indorsed the principles of the republican party and its policy.
     Of him it has been said: "The same elementary constituents in the composition of E. N. Woodruff that made him a good business man have made him a good politician, and more." He is not a political leader in the ordinary sense of the term, for he employs party organization only as a means to an end and yet manifests those qualities which in a wider sphere constitute the statesman. He is essentially a student of municipal affairs and gives much thought, consideration and study to questions relative to city government. While he holds to high ideals, his methods are practical and even the bitterness of partisan politics cannot o'ercloud the service which he has rendered in behalf of progress, reform and improvement. He was first called to the office of alderman, representing the first ward for two terms. In 1903 he was called to the mayoralty and retired at the close of that term. A careful reflection concerning the work of his administration led to his selection again as a candidate in 1909. The people indorsed the choice of the party delegates and once more he was elected and again in 1911. One of the local papers said concerning his reelection in April, 1910, that it came "after a severe criticism of his previous administration and a campaign for a commission form of city government in which his administration was mercilessly reviewed, and yet when the heat of party passion and civic criticism had spent its force, the fact remained that the administration of Mr. Woodruff had been sound and just and he was reelected by a majority of over fifteen hundred. A greater compliment was never paid a mayor of the city of Peoria. It was a vote of confidence and his present term would show that this confidence was not misplaced. Mayor Woodruff is a man with a brain and a sense of justice; with administrative power to plan much for the city's good and the executive will to carry his plans into effect. Elected twice an alderman and three times as mayor, attests the qualities not of a politician but of a man with high ideals as a public officer and these have been duly recognized and will continue to be recognized as the years roll on." Many tangible evidences of Mr. Woodruff's loyalty to the city's welfare can be given. He has made many public improvements and while never countenancing needless expenditure, he has not believed in retrenchment at the sacrifice of progressiveness, and has sought the city's advancement along all possible lines. During his administration about eighteen miles of paving has been laid on the east side in two years and twenty miles of cement sidewalk. A bridge proposition has been put through, planning for a bridge across the river, which will be of great benefit to the city. His plans have made it possible and he has promised the settlement of difficulties between the citizens and the water company by a direct vote of the people. He also submitted the bridge referendum to the vote of the people and has introduced many improvements in the police and fire departments, including civil service reform.
     In Peoria, in 1888, Mr. Woodruff was united in marriage to Miss Anna Smith, a daughter of Gottlieb Smith, an early settler of Peoria, who resided here for many years, and they have one child, Mary Monroe.
     In his fraternal relations Mr. Woodruff is a thirty-second degree Mason and a Shriner, and he is also affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America. He early learned the lesson that life means more than pleasure and has a deeper, broader purpose than activity for the benefit of self alone. He has therefore made an effort to render his career a serviceable one in the world's work and his fellow townsmen attest and appreciate the fact that he has done so. (Peoria, City and County, Illinois (1912) by James M. Rice, pages 14 & 17-18, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOODRUFF, NELSON L. (deceased), was born in 1818 in New York State. His parents, Samuel and Clementine? Woodruff, removed to Ohio in his early childhood, the age of seventeen years he drove a team through Illinois, removing their family and effects to Peoria Co. They settled on the Kickapoo creek near ? in 1835. Nelson engaged in canal boating ? Peoria and Chicago until 1855, then went into the ice business and continued until his death, on the 24th of Oct., 1879, after an illness of only seven hours, from congestion of the brain. So successfully did Mr. W. manage the ice trade that it grew to large dimensions, being the heaviest in the city at that time. His house had a storage capacity of 15,000 tons. In 1845 he married Mary A. Monroe, a native of Luzerne Co., Pa., by whom he had six children, two sons and four daughters. Harriet, now Mrs. Emmerson, of Peoria, Lois, now Mrs. Luthy, Jennie, now Mrs. H. B. Morgan, Chauncy, Ida, and Edward, living with their mother at 1025 N. Jefferson street, The ice business is still carried on under the firm name of N. L. Woodruff & Co., under the management of Mr. H. B. Morgan. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 704, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOODWARD, WALTER B. physician and dentist, corner of Jefferson and Hamilton streets, was born in 1846 in Cleveland, Ohio. His parents. Henry F. and Hesse Woodward, mother a native of England, father of Ireland. They removed to Wisconsin three months after doctor's birth, and came to Jubilee township, Peoria county, when he was eleven years of age. After leaving the public schools he attended Illinois College, Jacksonville. In 1864 served five months in the 145th Illinois Infantry, in Company C. He then went immediately to Europe, there completed his studies and graduated at the King and Queens' College of Physicians of Ireland, in April, 1872. Returned to Peoria and practiced medicine a short time, then took up the study of dentistry and graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery in 1878, since which he has practiced dentistry in Peoria. Doctor married Charlotte, youngest daughter of Charles Roper, of Dublin, Ireland, in 1872. They have two children, Henry T. and Charlotte Elinor. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 704, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOOLNER BROTHERS, distillers, and manufacturers of grape sugar, are natives of Hungary, Europe. The firm is composed of Adolph Woolner, res. 204 N. Madison street, Samuel Woolner, boards at Peoria House, Ignatius Woolner, res. 103 Sixth street, Jacob Woolner, res. 101 N. Jefferson street, and M. H. Woolner, res. 615 N. Jefferson street. They emigrated from their native country in 1867, in straightened, financial circumstances. First settled in Louisville, Ky.; worked at yeast making and later at distilling in the employ of other parties for some years. Came to Peoria in 1870, formed the copartnership and established business as the firm of Woolner Brothers in 1872. They own and run the Grove distillery at the foot of South street, are the chief proprietors of the Peoria grape sugar works, a combination with $100,000 stock. Also owned the Union distillery, which burned in Dec. 1879, and which they purpose speedily rebuilding. The capital of the firm is estimated now at $250,000, an accumulation of a few brief years, through business energy and judicious management. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 704-705, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WOOLSTEIN, HENRY L. contractor and builder, 605 Chambers street, was born in Tazewell county, Illinois, 1842. John Woolstein, his father, was a native of Prussia, Europe, and his mother, Armena DeBohr, was born in France. Mr. W. is the youngest of four children; was reared on the farm in his native county; was educated in the public school and by private study; came to Peoria in 1858, and worked at coopering in the Winter season until seven years ago. He began the contracting business in 1872; has done a large business, employing from ten to forty men; has erected many of the prominent buildings in the city, among them Francis & Co.'s distillery; had the contract for paving Water and Washington streets, in 1878. Mr. W. spent seven months of the year 1879 in Leadville, Colorado; owns two mining claims near there. In 1864 he married Miss Amelia Garvin, a native of Kentucky. Five children are the result of their union — Hattie, Minnie, Lillie, Wallace and Harry. Mr. W. spent three years in the war of the rebellion as a private, in Co. A., 17th Ill. Inf.; participated in all the battles in which the regiment fought; was discharged in May, 1864. Owns the homestead in which they reside, worth $5,000. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 705, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WRIGHT, S. H. Mrs., dressmaker, in S. Adams street, residence 316 Fayette street, is the daughter of Nesbert and Catherine Young nee McNabb, and was born in 1838, near Springfield, Illinois, where her early life was spent. Her grandfather came to Illinois in company with Abraham Lincoln, and joined farms with him. When of suitable age, Mrs. W. learned the trade of dressmaking, and twenty-one years ago located in Peoria, where she has conducted that business since, and now has the leading trade of the city. On April 27, 1865, she married William N. Wright, who was born and brought up in Lowell, Massachusetts. He followed locomotive engineering for some years; spent three years in the army during the late civil war; was three times wounded, one of which rendered him a cripple. He went South selling machinery about six years ago, and died there. His marriage with Mrs. W. resulted in one daughter, Gertrude. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 705, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

ROBERT WRIGLEY was born in Lancashire, England, February 17th, 1813. He came to the United States in 1842 and settled in Peoria county. After working by the month in Peoria and also in other parts of the county, he bought and improved some five farms, situated in Logan, Rosefield, and Trivoli townships, in which he owns some interest at present. Mr. Wrigley was married in England, December 9th, 1838, to Miss Ann Fenton, by whom he had five children. All married and settled in different parts of the country. Mr. Wrigley has a comfortable home, a view of which can be found in this work. (Atlas Map of Peoria County, Illinois, 1873, page 82, submitted by Susan Hare)

Back to top

WRIGLEY, WILLIAM, wholesale grocer, (Cutter & Wrigley) 117 S. Washington street, was born in Lancashire, England, in 1822. Crossed the Atlantic in 1841. Spent a year in Springfield, Illinois; came to Peoria county in 1842, and settling in Rosefield township, engaged in farming for thirty years. At that time there were but five houses in the seventeen miles between his place and Peoria. In 1845 Mr. Wrigley united in marriage with Ann Greenaugh, also born in England; came to the United States three years previously. They have three children living— Ellen, now Mrs. Barlow, Jennie, wife of partner, Mr. Cutter, and James H, occupying the homestead. Mr. W. removed to Peoria and entered the grocery business in 1873, under the present firm name. Their wholesale and retail trade runs from $75,000 to $100,000 per annum. Mr. and Mrs. W. are members of Calvary Mission Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 705, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

WYLEY, J. E. (deceased), is the son of John and Randella (Weaver) Wyley, Mr. W. being the third son of a family of nine children — eight sons and one daughter. Was born in Wyndam county, Vt., October 19, 1820, where he received his early education; was also at Dartmouth College. He married Miss Elizabeth Wilson, daughter of Solomon Wilson, who was born in Chester, Windsor county, Vt.. March 19, 1827. The fruit of this marriage was four children — Solon W., Clinton M., May E. and Walter L. Solon W. died April 21, 1877, and May died February 8, 1864. Mr. W. came to this county in 1844, and engaged in farming and sheep raising. Held several local offices of trust, and was a justice of the peace for twenty years. Mr. W. was a man who was highly esteemed by his neighbors, and a leading man of the township. Residence and post-office, Brimfield. (The History of Peoria County, Illinois, 1880, page 723, submitted by Janine Crandell)

Back to top

Any contributions, corrections, or suggestions would be deeply appreciated!