Sunday, March 11, 2007


SPRINGFIELD BEFORE LINCOLN
1831


Richard E. Hart


Springfield Population


In 1831, Springfield had a population of perhaps 850.



Prior to 1831, the town centered about the small square at Second and Jefferson streets, where Iles’ store and the first court house were located. Most of the houses were scattered along Jefferson Street. To the west, they commenced with the Town Branch timber (about Klein Street) and extended east to Fourth Street. There were only a few houses on Washington Street. Standing out from all others was the two-story frame residence of Dr. John Todd, the best house in town, which stood alone on the south side of the block between First and Second. The present square was on the fringe of settlement. Dr. Garret Elkin lived on the southwest corner of Sixth and Adams, while diagonally across from him…stood the two-story frame court house which the county commissioners had built in 1825. On the west side of the square was a solitary two-room frame house. The square itself, swampy and grown over with weeds, contained only the whipping post, a gruesome monument which stood bare and awesome across from (Bank One)… North of Jefferson Street, east of Sixth and south of Adams, all was virgin prairie and timber except for the home and small farm of Charles R. Matheny near the intersection of Sixth and Cook streets and the small tract which Edward Mitchell cultivated north of the present Illinois Central freight house.[1]



The year of the deep snow was a notable date in the history of Springfield. As definitely as dates ever can, it marked the end of frontier days and the beginning of years of thriving growth as a county town.[2]

In the interval between Christmas, 1830, and January, 1831, snow fell all over central Illinois to a depth of fully three feet on a level. Then came a rain, with weather so cold that it froze as it fell, forming a crust of ice over this three feet of snow, nearly, if not quite, strong enough to bear a man, and finally over this crust of ice, there was a few inches of very light snow. The clouds passed away, and the wind came down upon us from the northwest with extreme ferocity. For weeks, certainly not less than two weeks, the mercury in the thermometer tube was not, on any, one morning, higher than twelve degrees below zero. This snow fall produced constant sleighing for nine weeks.”

The recollection of some of the early settlers is that rain fell for some days, until the earth was saturated with water, and the day before Christmas the rain turned to snow, and the flakes were so large that in a few hours it attained a depth of six inches. I have, time and again, heard this snow described as much more than three feet deep, and no doubt the experience of those making the statements justified them in it.[3]



On January 11, 1831, Rezin H. and Abigail D. Constant had a daughter, Amanda.[4]



William and Jane Iles Convey Lot
at Northwest Corner of Third and Adams Streets To Elijah Iles


On January 17, 1831, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed two lots at the northwest corner of Adams and Third Streets to Elijah Iles for $100.[5]



mortgaged his house and 42 acres at the southeast corner of what is now Cook and Sixth Streets to William G. Abrams as Trustee for William L. May. The mortgage secured a note in the amount of $625 and bore interest at the rate of 33 1/3% per annum. The note was due in five years, with interest payable annually. If interest was unpaid for two years or interest due was greater than $416.66, the property could be sold.



On February 12, 1831, an Illinois general law for the incorporation of towns was enacted and approved.[6]


Arrival of Sullivan and Lydia R. Heminway Conant and Three Children


Sullivan and Lydia R. Heminway Conant arrived in Springfield on February 18, 1831. With them were their two daughters, 8 year-old Abigail A.,[7] and 4 year-old Susan E.[8] Sullivan Conant was born on February 26(6?), 1801, at Oakham, Worcester County, Massachusetts. Lydia R. Heminway was born in November, 1803, in the same county. They were married on September 10, 1822, at Shutesbury, Massachusetts, where they had three children, and moved to Amherst, where they had one child.

They returned to Shutesbury, and from there started west, on November 2, 1830, traveling in wagons to Troy, New York, and from there to Rochester by canal, thence by wagon to Olean Point, where they embarked on a raft and floated to Pittsburgh. There they took a steamboat down the Ohio, and up the Mississippi River to Chester, Randolph County, Illinois, where their youngest child died.

In January, 1831, Sullivan Conant started from Chester with his family in a sleigh, to visit some old friends near Carrollton, Greene county, Illinois, going by Illinoistown, now East St. Louis. They continued their journey by Jacksonville to Springfield, arriving on February 18, 1831. When they left Chester the snow was about six inches deep, but when they arrived in Springfield it was on four feet of snow, being the height of the “deep snow”.[9]


MARCH

James and Harriet Adams Convey Lots To Edmond D. Taylor:
Southwest Corner of Jefferson and Fourth Streets


On March 3, 1831, James and Harriet Adams conveyed lots at the southwest corner of Jefferson and Fourth Streets to Edmond D. Taylor for $650.[10]


County Commissioners Convey Lot
On Washington Between Seventh and Eighth StreetsTo James D. Henry


On March 10, 1831, the County Commissioners conveyed a lot on the north side of Washington Street between Seventh and Eighth Streets to James D. Henry for $40.[11]



In March of 1831, 22 years-old Abraham Lincoln encountered Springfield for the first time. He found the town appealing enough to push six years later for its being made the Illinois capitol and to make it his home.

In February 1831, there came to the neighborhood of John Hanks, when Abe Lincoln was lingering there, a man named Denton Offutt, a hard drinker, a hustler, and a talker shrewd with his tongue, easy with promises, a believer in pots of gold at the rainbow end. He would have a flatboat and cargo to go to New Orleans, all ready for Abe Lincoln, John Hanks, and John Johnston, “as soon as the snow should go off,” if they would meet him on a Sangamo River branch near the village of Springfield. They were there at the time set but Denton Offutt wasn’t; they walked to Springfield, asked for Offutt, found him drunk at the Buckhorn Tavern, and helped sober him.[12]

In the spring, when the streams were swollen with the melted snow, three young men of Macon County floated down the Sangamon to Springfield landing, and came into town to meet the man (Denton Offutt) who had hired them to take a flat-boat to New Orleans. Twenty-nine years later one of them, Abraham Lincoln by name, wrote that this was “the time and the manner “ of his first entrance into Sangamon County.[13]

Lincoln found Denton Offutt at Andrew Elliott’s Buckhorn Tavern at the southwest corner of Jefferson and Second Streets.[14]



Says my Father moved into County 1 Mile north of the city on the Athens road in the Spring of 1831. He was the owner & Keeper of a two story log Cabin and for a tavern –had a passage between East & west room---was on the south side of Jefferson Street fronting north opposite Capps grocery—west of the Chicago and St. Rail Road depot about 300 yards---The Tavern had a porch in front of it up & down-—e to each story—The Sign was a fine fat buck with fine horns pointed: he was painted proudly Standing & as it were Stamping; the deer looked northeast---at as appeared at your fathers (William Herndon’s father, Archer Gray) Indian Queen—a tavern Sign. The boys one night shot the deer full of bullet holes—he looked as if he ought to be dead yet he Stood on the Sign and Swung—My father about 1832 sold the old tavern to Morris (Samuel?)—who lived out in the Country—Mrs. Abrams—Mrs. Johnson—sometimes called kept a similar tavern during the same years just west of my fathers about 100, just opposite your present house where you (William Herndon) live. (Location?) It was in my father’s tavern that Lincoln stopt in 1831 if he stopt at the Buck horn—South Side of West Jefferson, between 1 and 2 Street.[15]


Offutt’s crew first had to cut the timber and build the flatboat. Lincoln assisted in cutting timber and had it “saw milled” at William Kirkpatrick’s mill on Prairie Creek, one and one-half miles southwest of Sangamo Town. Kirkpatrick had a “colored boy” in 1830. Perhaps Lincoln met Titus while working in this neighborhood. Was the colored boy there at the time of Lincoln’s visit? Was this Titus?



(On the northeast corner of Fifth and Washington Streets)…the store of John Williams stood in the 30’s. Here Lincoln probably came for the first time in the company of Denton Offutt, his New Salem employer, who shipped Tennessee seed corn for Williams to sell. When the store was operated later as Robert Irwin & Co., Lincoln served the owner as attorney, made many of his purchases there and deposited his spare cash with the proprietor.[16]


Third Court House Completed


In 1831 construction of a new Sangamon County court house located in the center of the square that is now the site of the Old State Capitol was completed. Brick, two stories in height, with a hip roof surmounted by a cupola, it was the most pretentious building in town. A plank fence, with stiles, was built around the court house, a public well was sunk and a pump erected, and the entire square sown with grass.[17]



Portion of Road Survey From Springfield to Decaturwith a drawing of the Third Court House Symbolizing Springfield[18]
Court House In Center of Square: Built in 1831



Soon after the new Court House was finished, a brick market house was built at the northeast corner of the square.




The completion of two good buildings was an incentive to further improvement. Thereafter, business shifted from around the old court house site at Second and Jefferson Streets to the new Court House Square.



In 1831, a row of three, two-story brick stores was built on Fifth Street, south from the corner of Washington.[19]



West Side of Square Showing Three, Two-Story Brick Buildings At North End ???

Arrival of James Frazier Reed


Sometime in 1831, prior to the Black Hawk War, 31 year-old James Frazier Reed, who was born on November 14, 1800, in County Armagh, Ireland, came to Springfield. His ancestors, who were of “noble Polish birth”, choose exile rather than submission to Russian power, settled in the north of Ireland. The family name was originally Reednoski, but in time the Polish “noski” was dropped, and the family was called Reed. James F. Reed’s mother’s name was Frazier, whose ancestors belonged to the Scottish Clan Frazier. Mrs. Reed, and her son, James F., came to America when he was a youth, and settled in Virginia. He remained there until 1820, when at age twenty he left for the lead mines in northwestern Illinois. He was engaged in mining until 1831, when he came to Springfield. He served in the Black Hawk War, and at its conclusion returned to Springfield, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits, made money, and bought a farm near Springfield. Did he meet Frank or take Frank to the lead mines in Galena? Frank received a Certificate of Freedom in Jo Davis County in 1830.

For several years, Reed manufactured cabinet furniture at a point on the Sangamon River, seven miles east of Springfield. He employed a large number of men, and a village grew up there, which, in honor of his first name, was called Jamestown. It has since been changed to Riverton.
CHECK FOR HISTORY OF REED OR RIVERTON (JAMESTOWN) AND RECORDS IN JO DAVIS COUNTY.



In the Spring of 1831 following the Winter of the Deep Snow, Black Hawk, one of two principal chiefs of the Sac and Fox Indian nations, crossed the Mississippi River into Illinois. Illinois Governor John Reynolds immediately called for volunteers to expel the Indians, and the ensuing conflict is now known as the Black Hawk War.[20]

Springfield participants:

Dr. Garrett Elkin raised a company in Springfield in 1831, and was Captain of it in the Black Hawk War of that year.[21]

James Adams
Dr. Elias H. Merriman
John Calhoun
James D. Henry
James Frazier Reed
Moreau J. Phillips [22]

Abbreviations used in the Black Hawk War database are:

1LT First Lieutenant
IN Infantry
2LT Second Lieutenant
INS Inspector
3LT Third Lieutenant
LT Lieutenant
ADJ Adjutant
LTC Lieutenant Colonel
AID Aide
MAJ Major
ARM Armorer
MAT Matron
BEA Color Bearer
MV Mounted Volunteer
BUG Bugler
MUS usician
COL Colonel
ODD Unassigned Colonel
COM Asst. Commissary
ORD Orderly
COR Coronet
PAY Paymaster
CPL Corporal
PVT Private
CPT Captain
QM uartermaster
DRU Drummer
SAD Saddler
FAR Farrier
SGM Sergeant Major
FIF Fife Player
SGT Sergeant
FOR Forage Master
SP Spies
GEN General
SUR Surgeon, Asst. Surgeon, Surgeon Mate
GOV Governor
TRU Trumpeter
GUN Gunsmith
WAG Wagon Master
HOS Hospital Steward



Black Hawk War Veterans

The following enrolled at Springfield:
NAME RANK COMPANY REGIMENT BRIGADE Ables, Armsted Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanAdams, Henry Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanAdams, Jeremiah Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanAnderson, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanAnderson, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanArmstrong, Hugh M Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanArmstrong, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanAshley, Hyram K. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanBaker, James Pvt L. Goodan 4 WhitesideBaker, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 WhitesideBall, Japhet 1lt A. Morris 2 DuncanBall, Smith Sgt A. Morris 2 DuncanBallard, Bland N. 2lt W. Barnett 2 DuncanBallard, George H. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanBarnett, William Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanBarnett, William C Capt. W. Barnett 2 DuncanBass, James Cpl J. Campbell 2 DuncanBates, John H. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanBenham, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanBerry, Baxter B. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanBerry, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanBlack, David Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanBlackford, Isaac Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanBlankenship, E. C. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanBlankenship, E. C. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanBodenhamner, John Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanBond, Benjamin Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanBrady, William A. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanBrady, William A. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanBrants, Moses H. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanBrasslee, Robert Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brents, Moses H. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brents, Simeon Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brown, Deloss W. Sgt Barnett 2 DuncanBrown, John B. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brumfield, Moses Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brunk, David Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Brunts, James D. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanBurton, Thomas Dru In Whiteside Burton, William Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanButler, Harden Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanButler, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanButler, William Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanCabenness, George E. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Calhoun, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Callerman, Daniel K. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCamel, John N. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanCampbell, James Cpt J. Campbell 2 DuncanCampbell, James Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCamron, Robert Cpl J. Saunders 2 DuncanCantrall, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanCantrel, W. 2lt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Carman, Jacob Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCarman, John Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanCarpenter, William Pay 4 Whiteside Carpenter, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Carson, John Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanCartmell, William W. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanCasby, Hartwell Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanCasby, Hartwell Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanCasson, John Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanCast, Archibald Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCenter, William R. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanChamp, Robert Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanCherry, Benjamin Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanChilton, Mathias Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Chilton, Thomas Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanClark, Thomas J. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanClary, William 2lt A. Smith 2 DuncanClinkinbeard, Job Cpl W. Barnett 2 DuncanCole, Samuel Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanCollins, James Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanCollister, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Comstant, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Constant, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanConstant, William Sur 4 Whiteside Cook, Thomas Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCoons, John D. Sgt A. Smith 2 DuncanCooper, Jacob Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanCox, John W. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanCox, Richard Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanCox, Thomas Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanCox, Thomas Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanCrawford, Josiah Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanCross, Alven Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanCrow, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Darrow, Jesse Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Davenport, William Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanDavenport, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Davis, Levi Cpl W. Barnett 2 DuncanDavis, Randolph Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanDawson, Charles Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Day, Charles Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanDecker, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanDeigh, James Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanDickeson, David Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Dilmon, Michael Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanDitson, Simon Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Dodson, Jesse Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanDonner, William A. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanDorrence, Gershom Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanDotson, Hirun Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Drennig, William G. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanDuncan, Matthew Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanDuncan, Matthew Sur In Whiteside Duncan, William H. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanDurham, Walter Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanDurley, Williamson Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanEads, Bartlet Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanEarly, Jacob M. Sur 4 Whiteside Earnst, William. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanEasly (Easley), William. . Cpl A. Morris 2 DuncanEdgar, David Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanElkin, Garret Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanElliott, Andrew Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanElliott, Thomas Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanEllis, Thomas D. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanElmore, Travis Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanEpperson, Thomas 1lt A. Smith 2 DuncanErley, Jacob M Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Eusters, Asa Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Faygon, John Cpl J. Campbell 2 DuncanFloid, Thomas Cpl A. Morris 2 DuncanForbush, Overton Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanFoster, Nathaniel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Fowler, John Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanGardner, Daniel P. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanGarrett, Joseph Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Garrett, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanGatton, Josephus Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanGiger, Henry Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanGlasscock, George Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Glen, David A. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanGood, Daniel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Goodan, Levi W. Cpt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Goodin, Levi W. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanGoodwin, Levi W. 1lt J. Campbell 2 DuncanGoodwin, Philip W. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanGrant, William D. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanGray, James R. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanGreen, Sion R. Sgt In Whiteside Green, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHackett, Leonard Sgt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHailey, James M. Cpl A. Smith 2 DuncanHailey, Thomas J. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHamilton, Samuel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Harmon, David Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanHarp, Jacob Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanHarper, Charles Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHarper, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHawthorn, Robert Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHenderson, John H. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHenderson, Vawter Qm In Whiteside Henderson, Walter Sgt A. Morris 2 DuncanHenry, James D. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHenry, James D. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Henry, John Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHenry, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanHerndon, Felix G. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHerndon, John R. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHerndon, John R. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanHevener, Jacob Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHigdon, Ignatius Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanHiggins, Bedford W. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHillyard, Leonard M. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHogland, George W. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHolland, Mathew Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanHook, Alexander Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanHook, Alexander Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanHord, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHoward, Benjamin Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHoward, Benjamin Fif In Whiteside Humphreys, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanHunes, Milton Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Hurst, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Hurt, James K. Sgt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHurt, Jesse G. Sgt W. Barnett 2 DuncanHutchinson, F. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanHutchinson, Thomas Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanIles, Elijah Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Iles, Washington 1lt J. Saunders 2 DuncanJackson, James Cpl A. Morris 2 DuncanJackson, Joseph Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanJarrott, Mordica (Jarrett, Mordecai)[23] Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanJohnston, William B. Sgt J. Saunders 2 DuncanJones, Edward Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanJones, Edward Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Jones, James Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Jones, James B. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Jones, Noah Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Jones, Real M. Sgt J. Campbell 2 DuncanJones, Richard Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanJones, Richard Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanJudd, Corban (Corbin) C. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanJudy, John Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanKem, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanKenney, Henry Cpl J. Saunders 2 DuncanKenney, Major Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanKesler, Benjamin Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanKeys, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Kindal, M C. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside King, George Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanKing, Preston Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanKing, Reuben Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanKing, Rueben Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Kline, John Cpl J. Campbell 2 DuncanKline, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Lane, John T. Sgt J. Campbell 2 DuncanLanum, Joseph Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanLatham, Philip C. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanLee, Samuel Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanLeighton, Jonathan Sur In Whiteside Little, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanLittle, Michael Sgt J. Saunders 2 DuncanLocker, John Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanLong, Thomas Maj In Whiteside Lucas, George B. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMaffet, George Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanMagee, Samuel Cpl W. Barnett 2 DuncanMaltby, Charles Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMalugin, Samuel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Malugin, Zacharia Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Man, Uriah Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Marshall, Thomas J. Qm In Whiteside Mashon, John F. C. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMason, Noah Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Massee, Jesse E . Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMatheney, L. D. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Matheny, L. D. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMc Connell, D. B. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanMc Coy, Joseph Sgt A. Smith 2 DuncanMc Coy, Joseph Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Mc Gary, Harrison Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMc Gary, Hugh 1lt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMc Gee, James P. Sgt W. Barnett 2 DuncanMc Gee, James P. Cpl W. Miller Sp DuncanMc Gee, Samuel H. Cpl W. Miller Sp DuncanMc Kenney, Jaret Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanMc Kinsey, Samuel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Mc Muertry, Horace Sgt A. Morris 2 DuncanMc Nabb, James C. Far J. Saunders 2 DuncanMeaker, Usual Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanMerryman, E. H.[24] (Elias H., Dr.) Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMiller, Baley Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanMiller, Jacob Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMiller, Jacob Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanMiller, William Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanMiller, William Cpt W. Miller Sp DuncanMoffett, Thomas Sgt J. Saunders 2 DuncanMore, Elisha 2lt A. Morris 2 DuncanMorgan, Evan Cpl J. Campbell 2 DuncanMorgan, Evan Sgt W. Miller Sp DuncanMorgan, John Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanMorris, Achilles Cpt A. Morris 2 DuncanMorris, Achilles Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Morris, Daniel Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanMorris, Edmund Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanMorris, Joseph Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMorris, Samuel Jr. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanMounts, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanMyers, William Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanMyers, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanNeal, George Sgt A. Morris 2 DuncanNeal, Samuel Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanNeale, Thomas M. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Neale, Thomas M. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanNeale, Winston M. Sgt A. Smith 2 DuncanNorris, Joseph Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanOldfield, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanOliphant, E. P. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Orchey, Michael Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Orchey, Vincon Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Palmer, William H. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanPalmer, William H. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanPaterson, Frederick A. Cpl J. Saunders 2 DuncanPatterson, P. S. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanPatterson, P. S. Sgt W. Miller Sp DuncanPearce, Thomas Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanPendleton, Champney Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanPeter, John Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanPeter, Samuel L. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanPettit, George Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanPhilips, Moran Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanPierce, Philetus G. Sad J. Saunders 2 DuncanPike, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanPlanck, Abram H. Cpl J. Saunders 2 DuncanPlanck, Jacob Cor J. Saunders 2 DuncanPotts, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Preston, Berry Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanPrice, William Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanPrimm, Abraham Cpl W. Barnett 2 DuncanPulliam, Martin G. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanPulliam, Martin G. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanQuinton, Richard Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Radford, Rueben Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Ralston, Josiah Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanRanrer, Samuel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Ray, Elijah Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanRead, John 1lt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Redman, James B. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanReed, James E. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanReed, James F Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Reed, John 2lt J. Campbell 2 DuncanReid, James M. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanReymor, Samuel Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanReynolds, Jeremiah Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanReynolds, Pherney Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanRhuark, Ezekiel Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanRichardson, Robert Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Richeson, Daniel Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Ridge, John Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Riley, Henry W. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanRobbins, Hiram Sgt W. Barnett 2 DuncanRobinson George H. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Robinson, George H. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanRobinson, John H. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanRolston, Joseph Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Rusk, B. (Benjamin) D.[25] Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Russell, Harvey Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanRutledge, John B. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Ryan, Joseph Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanSaid, Jesse Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanSaid, Jesse Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Sanders, P. A. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Sattley, Archibal Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanSaunders, Alvin W. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanSaunders, Cyrus G. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanSaunders, George Tru J. Saunders 2 DuncanSaunders, Jonathan R. Cpt J. Saunders 2 DuncanSaunders, P. A. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanSaunders, Presley A. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanScroggin, John Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanScroggins, John Pvt Barnett 2 DuncanScroggins, Lemuel Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanScroggins, Lemuel Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanSeaman, John Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanSexton, William Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanShain, Edward[26] Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanShelton, Thomas Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanSherell, James Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Short, James Cpl A. Smith 2 DuncanSimms, Larkin Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanSims, Benjamin Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Smith, Adam Cpt A. Smith 2 DuncanSmith, Albertson 2lt J. Saunders 2 DuncanSmith, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Smith, William S. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanSnider, Logan C. Cpl A. Morris 2 DuncanSouthwick, James L. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanSt John, Joseph Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanSt John, Joseph Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanStarr, Hiram Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanSteel, William Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Stephenson, James Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanStewart, John T. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Stevenson, James C. Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanStevenson, William C. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanStewart, John T. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanStipp, Enoch E. Tru A. Smith 2 DuncanStipp, James E. Cpl A. Smith 2 DuncanStipp, John M. Sgt A. Smith 2 DuncanStout, Daniel R. Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanStout, John Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanSummers, John Adj In Whiteside Taylor, Edward Cpl W. Miller Sp DuncanTaylor, Edward S. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanTaylor, James Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Taylor, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanTeeter, Solomon Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanTeple, Jacob Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanTeter, Solomon Pvt W. Miller Sp DuncanThomas, Hardin Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Thompson, J. LPay In Whiteside Tomlinson, James Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanTraylor, Archibald[27] Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanTrent, Alexander Cpl A. Smith 2 DuncanTrent, Martin S. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanVance, John C. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanVincent, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanViney, William S. Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanWadkins, Silas Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanWarburton, George Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanWatson, James Sgt J. Saunders 2 DuncanWebster, Bella Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanWelsh, Jefferson Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside West, John Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanWhite, George L. Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanWhitworth, Redmond Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanWilkinson, Carey Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanWilliams, Jarred Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanWilliams, Jesse Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanWilliams, John Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanWilliams, Joseph B. Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanWilliamson, Thomas A. Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanWillis, Sterling Pvt W. Barnett 2 DuncanWills, James Q. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Wills, W. E. Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Wilson, Moses G. Maj 4 Whiteside Withrow, Mathew Pvt A. Morris 2 DuncanWood, Alford Pvt L. Goodan 4 Whiteside Woods, George Pvt J. Campbell 2 DuncanWoolridge, Thomas Pvt A. Smith 2 DuncanWright, William Pvt J. Saunders 2 DuncanYoung, Cresbit Pvt J. Campbell 2 Duncan

Debt Note __ $85.29
B Talbott, const

September 2nd 1830 Summon issued returnable on the 7th instant at one oclock P. M.

September 7th 1830 Summon returned served and after hearing the testimony of Wm. Herndon it is considered that the Plaintiff recover of the Defendant the sum of Eighty five dollars and twenty nine cents and cost of suit
September 27th 1830 Execution issued which was returned stayed by a writ of injunction

Debt ----- $85.29
Justices fees---- 1.1_
Constables fees----- 1.____
$87.1__

I Wm Carpenter one of the acting Justices of the Peace in and for said county aforesaid do certify that the foregoing are the proceedings and judgment had before me in said suit. Given under my hand and seal this 16th day of April 1831

Wm. Carpenter J. P. (seal)[28]

To the Honbl

Samuel D. Lockwood Judge of the Circuit Court of Sangamon County

Sir

I herewith enclose charges against Charles R. Matheny clerk of the circuit court of Sangamon county from no one to no six inclusive the truth of which I am prepared as I believe to substantiate by the most conclusive testimony I feel myself entitled from the fact of being one of his securities to demand an investigation of the charges

I am Sir very respectfully
Your obedient servant
John Taylor

Springfield April 26 1831

The following charges are submitted to the Honbl Samuel D Lockwood Judge of the circuit court of Sangamon county against Charles D Matheny clerk of said court

To wit Charge No 1

Sept. term 1830
Michael Archer )
Vs )
Ephraim Darling )

In this case execution was ordered by the plaintiffs Attorney after Judgment was s_____which the clerk failed to _____. The defendant paid the amount of the Judgment to the clerk which was appropriated by him to his own use. The plaintiff by his attorney called upon the clerk for the money which he after the clerk had received which he failed to pay over

Testimony in this case
Jno J. Stuart &
E. Darling

Sept term 1830 Charge No 2
Hohaimer In this case after judgment was had the clerk either
Vs received the money and then issued the execution or
___ Cost secured the money after the execution came to the
hands of the Sheriff without notifying the Sheriff of
Testimony in said payment in either case subjecting the property of
This case the defendant to execution and sale after the money
Wm Cook had been paid by him to the clerk

Thereafter in
His hands
Jno Nance
Deputy sheff
& the excu__

Charge No 3

James White In this case execution was ordered by the plaintiff
Vs after Judgment which the clerk never issued one year
Shaw & Judy elapsed. Consequently the plaintiff was ___ the necessity of _____ the Judgment by __nfarias The neglect app____ this case it is believed can be made appear to have been in cause ____ of the clerks indebtedness to the defendant or an agreement made by him with th___ to pay the amount to the plaintiff

Charge No 4

_______
vs
Charles R. Matheny
Before Jno Dawson JP

Testimony in this case
John Dawson &
Thos M. Neale

In this case of an appeal from the Justices judgment wherein the clerk Charles R. Matheny was himself the defendant he issued injunction which was served upon the justice notwithstanding the time specified by law for taking an appeal had __pired neither did he take a transcript of the Justices Docket in the case as the law requires _____ afte__ proceeding thus far he suppressed the whole case it never having appeared upon your docket

Charge No 5
April term 1831
Wm Vance
Vs
__ Bassford
Testimony see
Subpoenas

In this case two subpoenas are issued to the same ___ the first issued on the 13th & the second on 16th April last thereby subjecting the party to double cost and shewing great neglect and carelessness in the clerk.

Charge No 6

The clerk has in several instances issued two summons in same case and at same term also two subpoenas to the same purport in same case all of which have been executed and returned by the sheriff and now on file in the clerks office a reference to which will be sufficient testimony in this case the particular cases in which the clerk has acted as above can not be recollected and if the fact can not be made appear from an examination of the files in his office the testimony of the sheriff must be taken

Springfield April 25 the 1831 John Taylor

Whereupon it is ordered by the court with the ass__ of the said Charles R. Matheny that he file his answers to the said charges and deliver a copy thereof to the attorney General on or before the first Monday in August next and the inquiring into the truth of said charges is continued until the next term of this court

Ordered that Court adjourn until tomorrow morning at 9 oclock

Samuel D Lockwood[29]

Recd May 9th 1831 of Charles R. Matheny Seventy eight dollars in full of a Judgment I obtained in the Sangamon Circuit Court of April Term 1831—against said Matheny,---

A. G. Herndon[30]

The undersigned the Committee appointed by the County Commissioners Court of Sangamo County to Superintend the Building of the Courthouse in this place, have examined the wood work and believe it executed in the spirit of the Contract and feel no hesitation to receive it from the Contractors The painting has not yet been completed and is to be done when call for by the undersigned May 17, 1831

John Todd
Garrett Elkin

Building Committee For Court House Approves Wood Work-May 17, 1831[32]


Henry Yates, born on October 29, 1786, in Caroline County, Virginia, was taken at a young age to Fayette County, Kentucky, where his father died. The family moved to Woodford, thence to Scott, and from there to Gallatin County, in the same state in 1804. Henry Yates, Henry Ellis and Col. Robert Johnson laid out a town on the Ohio River and Colonel Johnson named it Fredericksburg. It was later changed to Warsaw and is the county seat of Gallatin County. Henry Yates returned to Caroline County, Virginia and married on July 11, 1809 to his cousin, Millicent Yates, who was born on May 15, 1791. They went to Gallatin County, Kentucky, where they had eleven children, five of whom died young, and Mrs. Millicent Yates died April 19, 1830. Henry Yates married Mary A. Shuff and moved to Sangamon County, Illinois, arriving in May 1831, at Springfield.[33]


In 1831, the commissioners court freed a slave after a white man posted a bond on his behalf. “Henry Yates came into court and gave bond as this law requires, in setting free a negro man named Nelson aged fifty five years.[34]

JUNE

Petition of Springfield Citizens to the County Commissioners Court
Recommending Doctor Gershom Jayne as Town Supervisor



Petition of Springfield Citizens to the County Commissioners Court
Recommending Doctor Gershom Jayne as Town Supervisor[35]

National Road Improved to Vandalia

The Illinois Superintendent of the National Road, William Greening, wrote on June @6, 1831, that the “timber is now removed and the center part of the road is grubbed from the Indiana state line to Vandalia”, a distance of 90 miles.

On June 15, 1831, Erastus Wright married Jane Gardner.

On or before the 25th day of June ___ I will pay Henry Winesett $10 Given under my hand & seal June 17th 1831

D. Newsom[36]


Charles Whitesides, born in 1785 in Virginia, was taken by his parents to Fayette County, Kentucky. They traveled in boats from Pittsburgh down the Ohio River to Limestone—now Marysville-Kentucky. Charles was married in 1810 in Fayette County, Kentucky to Elizabeth Graves, who was born in 1788 in that county. They had five children in Fayette County, and in 1819 moved to Cumberland County, same state, where five children were born and the family moved to Sangamon County, arriving June 30, 1831 in Springfield.[37]

On June 20, 1831, Mordecai Mobley entered 40 acres at $1.25 per acre (a total of $50.00) the East ½ of the northwest in Section 23, Township 17 north, Range 5 West of the 3rd P. M.[38]


Mary E. Alvey, the daughter of William and Madaline Watson Alvey was born on July 12, 1831.[39]

In the summer of 1831, Josiah Francis, born on January 17, 1804, at Wethersfield, Connecticut, was the first of the Francis family to settle in Springfield. He at once took measures to establish the Sangamo Journal, and issued the first number on November 10, 1831.[40]

On August 20, 1831, Nathaniel and Sarah Ogden Rames had a son, John O.[41]

State of Illinois
Sangamon County

The People of the State of Illinois

To all the Sheriffs, Coroners and Constable of said State Greeting. We Hereby command you to take the body of William Watson alias William T. Watson wherever he may be found in said State and him safely to keep so as you have him before the undersigned Thomas Moffett an acting Justice of the Peace in and for Sangamon County & State aforesaid or some other Justice of the Peace in and for said County—to answer to sd People upon a charge of Burglary commited in said County against Vincent A. Bogue by entering his store house in sd County with an intent to murder said Bogue and this you will in no wise omit and make due return thereof. Given under my hand and seal at Springfield on this 25th day of August A D 1831

Thomas Moffett
A Justice Peace SS[42]

In September of 1831, Dianah, a colored woman, was received on a certificate into membership in the First Presbyterian Church at Springfield.[43] She was described in the church registry as “colored”.


STATE OF ILLINOIS, Sangamon County,
Circuit Court, September term, 1831.

Thomas Cox, Plaintiff, }
against } Attachment
Reuben Lobb, Defendant. }


This day came the plaintiff, by his attorney, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the Court, that the defendant is not an inhabitant of this state: and it appearing from the return of the sheriff, that the attachment has been levied on lot number three, in block number thirty-one (31), in the Town of Springfield:[44]

It is therefore ordered, that the defendant enter his appearance, and plead to this action, on the first day of the next term of this court, to be holden on the fourth Monday of April next, according to the rules and practice of this court, otherwise judgment will be had against him, and the property attached will be sold to satisfy the same. And it is further ordered, that a copy of this order be printed in some public newspaper, four weeks successively at least once in each week, and this cause is continued until the next term of this court.

A true copy from the record.
Attest, CHARLES R. MATHENY, Clk.
T. (Thomas) M. Neale, att’y for plt’ff.[45]


John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor Convey
½ Lot at Third and Monroe Streets To Nathaniel Rames

On September 22, 1831, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed the south ½ of a Lot at the northwest corner of Third and Monroe Streets to Nathaniel Rames for $12.[46]

John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor
Convey ½ Lot at Third and Monroe Streets To John Owens

On September 22, 1831, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed the north ½ of a Lot at the northwest corner of Third and Monroe Streets to Jon Owens for $12.[47]
Of all Lincoln friendships, that with William Fleurville is perhaps the most interesting from many angles. First, it was the oldest in Springfield, and second, it was the oddest, being with a colored man.[48]

In Springfield, Fleurville found Dr. E.H. Merrryman, for whom he had worked in Baltimore. Merryman helped the free black man establish himself in this transplanted Southern community.[49]

William de Fleurville was born about 1806 in Cape Haitien, Haiti, West Indies. When the Haitian revolution commenced in 1821-1822, his god-mother took him to Baltimore, Maryland, and kept him in St. Mary’s Convent until her death. William was then bound by the orphans court to learn the trade of a barber. He then went to New Orleans, thence to St. Louis, on a hunting excursion, up the Mississippi, Illinois and Sangamon Rivers, to New Salem, which was then in Sangamon County. He arrived in the fall of 1831. It was late in the evening, and as he approached the village he fell in with a tall man, wearing a red flannel shirt and carrying an ax on his shoulder, just returning from his day’s labor in the woods. They fell into an easy conversation and walked to a little grocery store together. The tall man was Abraham Lincoln, who soon learned that the stranger was a barber, nearly out of money and aiming to reach Springfield. That was enough to enlist the good will of Mr. Lincoln, who took him to his boarding house, told the people his business and situation. That opened the way for an evening’s work among the boarders, and the next morning he started on his way rejoicing, and reached Springfield on the second day. CITE

The first person William met in Springfield was Dr. Elias H. Merriman whom he had known and worked for as a boy in Baltimore. Dr. Merriman immediately assisted him. He soon secured employment in the home of General James D. Henry, a noted fighter in the Black Hawk War.[50]


William Fleurville, age 25, married Phoebe (Feba) Rountree, age 21, shortly after his arrival.[51] Phoebe was a member of the First Methodist Church.[52]

On October 4, 1831, William Carpenter was appointed postmaster.


The plat of “Pascal P. Enos’ Addition to Town of Springfield was acknowledged by Pascal P. Enos, October 10, 1831, before T. M. Neale, J. P. Sangamon County, and recites that Lots 3 and 4, Block 1 are donated to the use of the Methodist Episcopal Church. [53]


The Friends of Learning are requested to meet at Mr. Wadley’s school room, on Saturday evening next, at early candle-light, where he will explain to them the mode of teaching English Grammar by lectures, and offer proposals for making up a class.

Oct. 10[54]

On October 12, 1830, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed Lot 7, Block 14 to John G. Taylor for $50.[55]

On October 15, 1831, James Mason, John Reynolds, William Miller conveyed Lot 6, Block 6, fronting 50 feet on Jefferson Street extending north 157 feet to an alley being the lot on which Hampton now resides for $50.[56]
On October 15,, 1831, James Mason, John Reynolds, William Miller conveyed a lot at the northeast corner of First and Jefferson Streets, fronting 50 feet on Jefferson Street extending north 157 feet along First to an alley being the lot on which the tinners shop is located for $50.[57]

On October 25, 1831, Sullivan and Lydia R. Heminway Conant had a son, Levi J.[58]

In this Village, on the 29th ult., JAMES, only child of George Forquer, Esq., aged about 2 years.[59]
On November 2, 1831, the plat for Ninian Edwards First Addition was recorded.[60]
On Sunday last (November 6) in this village, Mr. Zacheriah Elkin. [61]

Henry Yates Advertises General Merchandise

NEW GOODS,
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL.

H. YATES
First store North of Union Hall, opposite the Court House,

Has just received from the East, a large and gener assortment of
MERCHANDIZE
Wheat, Corn, Oats, Hides, Fur skins, Pork, Tallow, Butter, Linsey Jeans, Flax and Tow Linen, Hemp, Feathers, &c. &c., will be taken at the highest prices.
Springfield, Nov. 6, 1831.[62]

John Williams Advertises Fall and Winter Goods
FALL AND WINTER GOODS.

JOHN WILLIAMS has just opened at the old stand, a large and general assortment of

DRY GOODS, GROCERIES, HARDWARE,
QUEENSWARE, IRON, CASTINGS,
SALT, LEATHER, &c. &c.

Which he is determined to sell at the lowest Springfield price for Cash, Butter, Beeswax, Young Cattle, Wheat, Flour, Corn Meal, Beans, Hemp, Country Linen, Tallow, Dry Hides, Deer Skins, Fur Skins, Flaxseed, &c.

Springfield, Nov. 7, 1831[63]

The December 1, 1831 Sangamo Journal contained an advertisement for Jabez Capps’ grocery.[64]
JABEZ CAPP’S
STORE & GROCERY

The subscriber respectfully begs leave to inform his customers and the public generally, that he has now on hand, and intends to keep constantly at his old stand on Main Street, a general assortment of

DRY GOODS & GROCERIES,

Which he will sell on the most reasonable terms, and for which he will take in payment, Wheat, Flour, Corn, Meal, Buckwheat, Honey, Beeswax, Tallow, Hides, Pork, Bacon, Lard, Butter, Cheese, Beans, Hops, Dried Fruit, Rags, Whiskey, &c.&c.

Opposite the Post Office, he has recently opened a good assortment of the best GROCERIES, which will be sold low for cash or any kind of Country Produce.

Springfield, Nov. 8.[65]

NEW GOODS!!

BELL & Tinsley, (Main Street.)

Have just received from Philadelphia and other eastern cities, a large and general assortment of
MERCHANDIZE,
Consisting of-

Dry Goods, Hardware and Cutlery, Queens, China and Glassware.

A good assortment of Saddles, Bridles, &c.
MEDICINES, GROCERIES, TINWARE, IRON & CASTINGS,

100 barrels Kenhawa and 50 sacks ground alum SALT,
20 boxes Collins & Co’s cast steel AXES.
Cross cut, Mill and Pit Saws, of the best quality. All of which they offer on accommodating terms; those wishing to purchase are respectfully invited to call and examine for themselves.
Springfield, Ill. Nov. 9, 1831.[66]

Smith & Moffett Advertise Cabinet Shop-November 9, 1831[67]

Arrival of Simeon Francis

Simeon Francis,[68] a 35 year-old native of Connecticut and a brother of Josiah, arrived in Springfield prior to November 10, 1831.[69]


See Campbell, p. 34. Editors Simeon and Josiah Francis s.w. cor of 5th and Washington

The first issue of the Sangamo Journal was published on November 10, 1834. The title in the masthead was “Sangamon Journal”, but the information concerning the location of the newspaper offices at Fifth and Washington Streets and subscription information was under a column headed “Sangamo Journal”. “Office in the new brick building, fronting Public Square, north-west of the Court House.” S. & J. Francis.[70]

After a much greater lapse of time than was intended, we present our subscribers with the first number of the Sangamon Journal.—We have come here with the intention of making Springfield a permanent residence—to unite ourselves with this community as fellow citizens—and have cheerfully embarked in the establishment of the Journal a good portion of the little means at our command, with a firm determination to apply ourselves to the duties of our office with unremitting industry; and it now rests with others to say, where our hopes shall be blasted, or our exertions rewarded with the cheering confidence and patronage of the citizens of this part of Illinois.

We know that it is usual on occasions like this, to eulogize the advantages of the press—to make promises which never can be realized. All we have now to say is –give us a fair opportunity, and we doubt not that the reasonable wishes and expectations of our patrons will be gratified.
The Editors.[71]



Front Page of the First Issue of the Sangamo Journal-November 10, 1831


Doctors Merriman and Rutledge Announce New Office Location
DOCTORS
MERRYMAN & RUTLEDGE,

RESPECTFULLY inform the public that they have removed their office to the house situated between Captain Russell’s Tavern and the dwelling of Col. John Taylor.

Nov. 10, 1831[72]

Thomas D. Potts Advertises Fall and Winter Goods
Fall and Winter Goods

Thomas D. Potts

(One door east of Mr. William Miller’s Hotel.)

Has just received and now offers for sale, a choice and well selected assortment of

FALL & WINTER GOODS:

Whiskey, salt AND tobacco.

The subscriber having located himself in this town, and being determined to keep at all times a complete assortment of the above articles, and every other suitable for the market, he hopes to receive a share of public patronage.

The highest market price paid for Pork, Wheat, Butter and Hemp.

Springfield, Nov, 10, 1831.[73]


Smith & Moffett Advertise for Journeymen Cabinet Makers
TO JOURNEYMEN CABINET-
MAKERS

The subscribers wish to employ two Journeymen Cabinet Makers, who are good workmen,

Nov. 10 Smith & Moffett. [74]



In 1831 and the years which followed, the population of Springfield increased rapidly. The Sangamo Journal, newly founded, reflected on the attainment of a population of some 800 or 900 and predicted great things for the future.

“Our short residence in Springfield,” said the editor in the first number, “does not enable us to speak with certainty of the comparative improvement of the place in the last with former years. We see enough, however, to convince us, that the advantages which Springfield offers to the merchant, the mechanic, and other professions, will not be much longer over-looked. Our population is rapidly increasing. A considerable number of buildings were erected last summer-many are now being built-and a still greater number are projected for the ensuing year.”[75]

Jabez Capps Gives Springfield Market Quotes


The Sangamo Journal’s largest local ad provided a list of the community’s current produce prices, which Jabez Capps updated every week--an important service in a town heavily dependent on the barter system as a means of exchanging goods and services at fair value.[76]
Journal: Spfd. grocer, D. 1/31-1;1; assigns accts. to J. Smith & Bros., N. 9/33-3:2; plff. chancery suit, Jy. 12/34-3:6; lots sold for taxes, Mr. 3/38-2:7; cand. Logan Co. recr. Mr. 30/39-3:6; May. 27/47-3:3; elec. Ap 5/39-3:4; appellee Sup. Ct. Ja. 20/48-2:7; mem. com. Mt. Pulaski citz. mtg., Mr. 9/50-2:2.



At least two or three potters had worked in the state during the 1820’s, but John Ebey was apparently the first to advertise his wares in an Illinois newspaper (Sangamo Journal, November 10, 1831):

POTTER’S WARE.

The subscriber has established in Springfield, near the Public Square, a
Potter’s Ware Manufactory;

And will be able to supply all orders in his line of business on good terms.

WANTED---In exchange for Ware, Clean Cotton and Linen

RAGS;
For which two and a half cents per pound will be allowed. Most kinds of Country produce will also be received in exchange for Ware.

JOHN N. EBEY

Springfield, Nov. 10, 1831.[77]

Born in Huntington County, Pennsylvania, John Neff Ebey had been raised in Ohio, and there he learned the potter’s trade. About 1826, he moved with members of the Brunk family to Cotton Hill, south of Springfield. The following year he made his first Illinois pottery – common redware. [78]

Sangamo Journal Subscriptions Offered In Exchange for Country Produce
Our country subscribers are informed, that Flour, Pork, Lard, Butter, and many other articles of country produce, used in families, will be received in payment for the Journal.

Journal Office, November 15. [79]

Bennet C. Johnson Advertises Groceries and Liquors
GROCERIES
AND LIQUORS.

BENNET C. JOHNSON,
Respectfully informs his friends, and the public generally, that he has just received from St. Louis, a large assortment of
GROCERIES AND LIQUORS;

Which he intends to sell low for Cash, Bees Wax, Tallow, Dry or Green Hides, Beans, Wheat, Corn, Corn Meal, Oats, Rye, Potatoes, Whiskey, Onions, Flour, or any other article of produce, that can be disposed of in this market.

He avails himself of this opportunity, to tender to his friends his grateful acknowledgements, and hopes his efforts will ensure a continuance of their favors.

Some friends, inadvertently it is to be hoped, have suffered their accounts to remain unpaid longer than is desireable: upon those he earnestly calls for immediate payment; and reminds them, in case of failure to do so, that there are persons having power, under the laws, to take Horses, Hogs, Sheep, Horned Cattle, Household Goods, &c., and even the body, as the case may be.

Springfield, Nov. 15, 1831[80]

Mather, Lamb & Co. Opens Store

In November, 1831, Mather, Lamb & Co. announced that they were opening in “Mr. Enos’ New Store House on Main Street (Jefferson Street),” a large stock of merchandise from New Orleans, Philadelphia and New York, and specified, among others, the following commodities: dry goods, groceries, hardware and cutlery, glass, and china ware, iron and castings, fur and wool hats, books and stationery, boots and shoes.[81]


Mather, Lamb & Co. Advertise New Store-November 22, 1831[82]

William Kirkman Advertises Tailoring Business in New Building Opposite Court House
TAILORING.

THE subscriber has removed upstairs, in the new brick building, nearly opposite the Court House, where he will execute all orders in his line of business with neatness and dispatch.

He has made arrangements to receive the latest Fashions from New York, and will make Gentleman’s Clothing, and Ladies’ Habits, in the most fashionable, or in a plain, style, as he shall receive directions.

WM. KIRKMAN.
Springfield, November 16, 1831.[83]

William P. Grimsley Advertises General Store
William P. Grimsley advertised his general store in the November 17, 1831 Journal.[84]

William and Jane Iles Convey Lot To John Owens

On November 29, 1831, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed Lot 8, Block 19 to Jon Owens for $35.[85]



Thirty-two year-old John Francis Rague (1799-1877) and his wife, Eliza M. Van Dyke, arrived in Springfield in the late fall of 1831. He hailed from New York City where he had trained as an architect. But without a demand for his building skills, Rague eventually opened a bakery and accepted mundane town-government positions in order to support himself and his family. His only known major building project in those early years at Springfield turned out to be the State House contract which political and church friends helped him obtain from the commissioners.[86]

…(Rague) led a most colorful life and seems to have been a true Renaissance Man, or one skilled in many arts and sciences. John Francis Rague had been born March 24, 1799, at Scotch Plains, New Jersey, the son of John and Hannah (Bonnel) Rague. His father, Dr. John Rague, had come to the American Colonies as the personal physician of General LaFayette and remained here after the American Revolution. With his family, Dr. Rague moved to New York City where young John Francis married Eliza M. Van Dyke on April 16, 1820. For about ten years, he seems to have studied architecture or copied drawings and plans there in the office of the famous Minard Lafever.

In spite of his many talents, John F. Rague had a serious defect in his personality: he chased women and sometimes caught them! It mattered little to him that he definitely was not single. His wife testified that he began to stray during the second year of their marriage. Probably to save face, the couple fled from New York City and settled down in Springfield late in the fall of 1831.

Why the Ragues chose Springfield is unknown. Certainly, Springfield had little or no need for an architect in those early years.[87]

He came here from New York in 1831 and during his stay of ten years engaged in such a variety of unrelated activities that his record is somewhat fabulous. In addition to being a baker he bought and sold real estate, and served as president of the Mechanics Union, an organization that operated a school, and which later acquired our first church building after the church outgrew it.[88]

DECEMBER
December 1831 S M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31

Sullivan Conant Advertises for Linn Plank and Glass Cutting
WANTED TO CONTRACT FOR
2000 FT. LINN PLANK:

Suitable for Chair seats, for which cash will be paid.

S. Conant.
Springfield, Dec. 2, 1831. [89]
GLASS CUTTING.—The subscriber is prepared to cut Window Glass to any pattern, and all other work belonging to the GLAZIER’S business.

S. Conant.
Springfield, Dec. 2, 1831. [90]

House on North Side of Public Square For Sale
A House and Lot, with a good stable, situate on the north side of the public square, in the town of Springfield.

The above mentioned property will be sold on liberal terms; and is well worthy of the attention of persons desiring to purchase.

Application can be made at the Journal office or to the subscriber,

ADAM SMITH

Dec. 2[91]

Campbell & Britton Move to New Store House Near Public Square

Campbell & Britton Move to New Store House Near Public Square[92]



ONE CENT REWARD AND NO
CHARGES PAID.


Ran Away from the subscriber on the 5th November last, an indented apprentice to the Blacksmithing Business, named SAMUEL NEAL. He was about 5 feet 3 or 4 inches high, ages about 19 years. All persons are forbid harboring or trusting said boy on our account, and all persons are also forbid employing said boy on penalty of the law.

OWEN & RANES
Springfield, Dec. 6, 1831. [93]



On Tuesday, December 6, 1831, Frank Shelby, “a man of colour” was one of the original purchasers of the lots laid out around the new Court House Square. He paid $10 to the County Commissioners as the purchase price for a lot located on the north side of Washington Street between Sixth and Seventh Streets.[95] The survey of the Town of Springfield made by Thomas M. Neale in 183_, contains the names of the original purchasers of lots. Frank Shelby is listed on Lot 6, Block 12 of the survey as “Blk. Frank”. Frank had been given a certificate of freedom at Galena in November of 1830.[96]

MAP WITH “BLK FRANK”. See p. 38?

On this day (December 6, 1831) Frank Shelby a man of color came into court and presented to the court a title bond from William Mitchell[97] for lot no. 6, in block no. 12 in the Town of Springfield and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that one third of the purchase money have been paid and the said Frank paid into court the balance due amounting to six dollars forty one and two thirds cents. It is therefore ordered that that the said lot no. 6 in block no. 12 be deeded to Frank Shelby.[98]

County Commis.

To

Frank Shelby

Know all men by these presents that we Frank B. Smith, Zachariah Peter and Garrett Elkin County Commissioners of the County of Sangamon and State of Illinois of the one part and Frank Shelby a man of colour of the County and State aforesaid of the other part Witnesseth that the said Smith Peter & Elkin commissioners aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of ten dollars each to them in hand paid have this day given granted bargained and sold, alienated, conveyed and confirmed and by these presents do give grant bargain sell and convey and confirm unto the said Frank Shelby a man of colour as aforesaid his heirs and assigns forever the following piece or parcel of land known and _____ as follows Being Lot No six (6) in Block Number twelve (12) in the Town of Springfield in County and State as aforesaid to have and to hold to him the said Frank Shelby his heirs executors and administrators the above described land together with all and singular the privilege and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any way appertaining. In testimony whereof we Frank B. Smith, Zachariah Peter and Garrett Elkin commissioners as aforesaid for ourselves and our successors in office have hereunto set our hands and affirmed our mark this 6 day of December A. D. 1831.

Henry F. Lightfoot Advertises Springfield Boarding House

SPRINGFIELD
BOARDING HOUSE.
The subscriber has taken Mr. Samuel Morris’s new house, near main-street, a few doors south of Miller’s Hotel, where he intends to keep a Boarding House. His accommodations are good—his table will be well supplied –and he respectfully solicits public patronage.

HENRY F. LIGHTFOOT,
Springfield, Dec. 8, 1831. [99]

Public Meeting At Court House Concerning the National Road

A PUBLIC MEETING.
The citizens of the town of Springfield and of Sangamon county generally, are requested to meet at the Court House on Saturday next, at 12 o’clock precisely, to consider of the expediency of instructing our delegation in Congress, in relation to the National Road in this state; and also to present our grievances to their consideration, in relation to the present mal-arrangement of the mails, to this place.

SEVERAL CITIZENS.

Springfield, December 8, 1831.[100]

Randolph Moore & Thomas Walters Form Partnership for Cabinet Making

CABINET MAKING,

IN ALL ITS VARIOUS BRANCHES.

RANDOLPH MOORE & THOMAS WALTERS, having formed a partnership under the firm of

MOORE & WALTERS,

And purchased the shop and materials owned by John Moore, (on Main street, one door below Russell’s tavern,) are prepared to execute orders for any article of CABINET FURNITURE that may be wanted…… They intend keeping constantly on hand, and for sale, all articles in their line, such as

SIDEBOARDS, BUREAUS, DINING AND
BREAKFAST TABLES, STANDS,
BEDSTEADS, &c. &c.

And will at all times be ready to furnish, on the shortest notice, any article of Furniture which they may not have on hand.

Having a Turning Lathe attached to their establishment, they are also prepared to execute every kind of

PLAIN & FANCY TURNING.

As both of the firm profess to be well acquainted with their business, they feel confident of being able to render satisfaction to all those who may favor them with their custom. Their terms will be unexceptionable…

Plank and Produce will be received in payment for work.
Springfield, December 14, 1831.[101]

Subscription Ball At Union Hall
A SUBSCRIPTION BALL,

Will be given at the UNION HALL, on WEDNESDAY EVENING, the 14th instant.
Springfield, Nov. 8, 1831.[102]

James William Alvey Advertises As Hatter and Furrier

In the December 15, 1831 Sangamo Journal, James William Alvey advertised as a hatter and furrier.[103]


James William Alvey Advertises As Hatter and Furrier-December 15, 1831



Singular Affair.---One day last week, Mr. George Madeira, arrived in this village from Galena; he her stated that he had broken jail at that place, --where he had been confined for stabbing a Mr. Wells, in a fit of jealousy, who died of the would; he also stated that he was on his way to see the Governor, with the view of obtaining a discharge or reprieve—we hardly know what to term it. But we doubt much whether he visits the governor. It is far more probable—with the brilliant precedents before him—that he has gone to Washington for an appointment.[104]


John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor Convey Lot on West Side of Fifth Between Washington and Adams Streets To John G. Taylor


On December 20, 1831, John and Elizabeth Burkhead Taylor conveyed across from the Public Square in middle of block between Washington and Adams Streets to John G. Taylor for $50.[105]

Edward Mitchell Becomes Post Master of Springfield


Edward Mitchell became post master of Springfield in December 1831.[106]

Reverend John G. Bergen Delivers Address on “Signs of the Times”


We are requested to state, that on Sunday Morning next, Rev. Mr. Bergen, will deliver an Address upon the “signs of the times.”

Dec. 22. [107]

Temperance Society Meets At Presbyterian Chapel


We are desired to say that an adjourned meeting of the Temperance Society will be held at the Presbyterian Chapel, on Monday evening next.

Dec. 22. [108]

B. C. and E. Tabor Advertise Cabinet Work



CABINET WORK.

B. C.& E. TABOR

Respectfully inform the citizens of Springfield, and its vicinity, that they carry on the above business, one door north of the Post Office, in Springfield, where they can be found at all times.

They hope from their experience in business, and prompt attention to orders, to share a part of the public patronage. Their work shall be finished in a style not inferior to any in the western country.

All kinds of approved country produce will be thankfully received in payment for work.

December 27, 1831.[109]

B. C. and E. Tabor Cash for White Walnut
CASH

Will be paid for a quantity of thin PLANK, suitable for Cabinet work. White Walnut is preferred.[110]


Marriage of John Calhoun and Sarah Cutter

On December 27, 1831, John Calhoun married Sarah Cutter, who was born in 1812 in Cincinnati, Ohio.[111]



In December of 1831, Benjamin Talbott administered the Estate of William Odum.[112]



Ira Winchell was born on March 22, 1818, in Franklin County, New York. His parents died about 1825, and he went to St. Lawrence County, and lived a few years with a family near Postdam, all without any guardianship, after the death of his parents. He then engaged to come west with a Mr. Ira Brown, who had a large family of 12 persons. They moved in two road wagons and one-horse wagon. Mr. Brown stopped to visit a friend at Kirtland, Ohio. It was just at the time of the Mormon hegira from Kirtland to Nauvoo, Illinois. There was a great prejudice against the Mormons, and Mr. Brown’s large family and general outfit looked so much like that of a Mormon, as to cause him great inconvenience in obtaining supplies. Mr. Winchell’s recollection of events connected with the journey are quite interesting and amusing, although the trip was very laborious. They were nine weeks on the road, arriving in Springfield in December 1831. Mr. Winchell traveled in different parts of the country for ten or twelve years, but always regarded Springfield as his home. Ira Winchell and Alice Huddlestone were married Feb. 18, 1842 in Macoupin County. She was born on May 29, 1823, near Columbus, Ohio. Her parents moved from Greenbrier County, Virginia, to Columbus Ohio, thence to Newport, Indiana, and from there to Macoupin County, Illinois, before the deep snow.[113]



. In 1831, William (Uncle Billy) Fagan,[114] a 46 year-old farmer who had been born in North Carolina, his 47 year-old wife, Peninah Fruit Fagan,[115] who had been born in North Carolina, and their children, Elizabeth,[116] John,[117] and George,[118] all of whom had been born in Kentucky, moved to a farm located three miles northwest of Springfield.[119]
Circa 1822 or 23: Z. Enos: Snow Birds

Edward J. Phillips Begins Law Practice

Edward J. Phillips, one of lawyers practicing in Springfield between 1831-1841, was a man of fine personal appearance, above average in scholarship, and a fine business man. He practiced law only a short time, and then secured a position in the State bank, and as an officer of that institution was exceedingly popular as he was also in social life.”, 600 (Methodist Steward) and 186 (mentioned).[120]



In 1831, Dr. Jacob M. Early, [121] who was born on February 22, 1806 in Virginia, came to Springfield.[122]



George Pasfield, II. settled in Sangamon County in 1831. He was born in England, brought by parents to America, in early childhood, and reared in Philadelphia, where his parents both died of the yellow fever. Before coming to Illinois he engaged in buying and shipping produce, in large quantities, by flatboat, down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and in trading in a general way. He resided some years in Cincinnati, in Louisville, and in Paris, Bourbon County, Kentucky. In the latter place he married Mary Forden (a native of Maryland-55 in 1860), in 1830, and moved to Springfield, Illinois, the next year. Daughter Louisa, born in Kentucky-



George Pasfield Residence

In Springfield, he embarked in a grocery and general merchandising business, and also continued in general trafficking. [123]



Robert Allen, age 31 and a native of Greensburg, Green County, Kentucky, and his wife, _____ Anderson, arrived in 1831.[124] Not long after coming to Springfield, Mrs. Allen died.

Col. Allen engaged in the mercantile business as a member of the firm of Allen & Blankenship, soon after coming to Springfield. He also became a mail contractor on a very extensive scale, and brought a large number of fine stage coaches from Nashville, Tenn., being the first ever introduced into the State. He made Springfield his headquarters, and on some occasions had as many as five hundred horses on hand at one time. Col. Allen was one of the directors of the old State Bank. He was connected with the Mexican war of 1846-7.[125]

Arrival of Samuel C. and Catharine Johnson Hampton and Family

Samuel C. Hampton, settled in Sangamon County in the fall of 1830, near Mechanicsburg, and moved to Springfield the next year. The family lived in the lower rooms of a two-story log house, and Sullivan Conant occupied the upper rooms with his family, having come from Massachusetts in February of 1831.

Father Conant says his wife thought she could scrub her floor as they did in their native home, and in the attempt almost drowned us out of house and home. Mother Conant used to tell that one of her earliest recollections of Springfield was a little urchin, with a black, curly head, full of mischievous pranks. That curly headed boy and her little black eyed daughter, in their manhood and womanhood, became man and wife, and under the blessing of a kind Providence, have become father and mother of a large family of children, and been blessed with a liberal share of worldly prosperity. Five of our children still live, two are dead. Mother Conant lived and died a Christian, many years ago. Father Conant still lives, four score and one years of age, a well preserved man, honored and blessed by eight living children and many grand-children, and by all who know him. One of the earliest things I recollect was, we lived in a log cabin near the old cemetery. We slept on one feather bed and covered with another in winter. When we had a drifting snow-storm, we would have an extra job in the morning of shoveling the snow out of the house, but the children enjoyed better health then than many who are confined in air-tight houses, heated with air-tight stoves.

On one occasion, Mr. Erastus Wright gathered all the boys in town and had them clean up the court house yard, and after the job was done, took us down to old Father Dickey's and treated us to beer and cakes, and we all felt happy over it.

I well remember the immense political gathering of 1840, with its log cabin on wheels, its hard cider barrels, it coonskins and live coons grinning over the dead roosters carried in procession

I well remember the sad day in 1844, when, in attempting to raise an ash pole, it fell, killing Mr. Brodie, and maiming for life the brother of my wife. To show you how we had to work and how we were paid, I will relate a little of my experience. I, with a younger brother, worked on a brickyard for old Mr. Hay, who long ago passed away to his rest. It took both of us to do the work of one boy, and for this we got twenty-five cents a day and boarded ourselves. Many a day have I worked with a chill on, and then lay down until the fever abated, but we had some good company. Judge Milton Hay and his brothers, J. Addison and Theodore, molded the brick, while we off-bore them.

Money was scarce then. We boys hardly ever saw any, except once in a while we would get twenty-five cents to go to a show. They would make us take orders on the stores. I recollect one show that came, and I had to have a decent cap to go with, for in those days we boys wore seal skins, not the seal of today, which looked more like hog skin with the hair cut short. Well, I went up to the store before breakfast and picked out a cap for one dollar; went back for my order, and when I returned the proprietor asked one dollar and twenty cents as soon as he saw the order. I told him he had offered it to me for a dollar. He said, before breakfast it looked like rain, and that they would have a dull day, but it had cleared off, and they could not sell so cheap. So after that I prayed for dull days for that store. [126]


HAMPTON, SAMUEL C., brother to James P., was born about 1791, in Franklin county, Ky. He was there married, in 1819, to Catharine Johnson, a native of Virginia. They had four children in Frankfort, Franklin county, Ky. The eldest, J. Henry, died there. Mr. Hampton moved with his family to Sangamon county, Ill., arriving in the fall of 1830, in what is now Mechanicsburg township, where they had one child. Of their four children--
JAMES W., born Oct. 4, 1823, in Frankfort, Ky., married in Springfield to Elizabeth Johnson. They had three children, two of whom died young. JOHN T. is married, and resides in Decatur, Ill. Mrs. Elizabeth Hampton died, and James W. Hampton married Ada Baker. They had three living children, FRANK, NETTIE and CHARLES R. James W. Hampton died Oct. 25, 1875, in Springfield, Ill. His widow and children live at 817 South Fourth street.
ELIZABETH, born in 1825, in Kentucky, married in Sangamon county in 1842 to Isaac Hart. They had five children, and in 1860 moved to, and are now living at, Ottumwa, Iowa.
SETH COOK, born April 18, 1828, in Frankfort, Ky., was married Sept. 8, 1853, in Springfield, to Mary A. Conant. They had seven children--SETHCOOK, Jun., the eldest, and EMERY E., the youngest, died under five years. The other five, HARRY L., LYDIA C., ALBERT S., RUTH M., and RUFUS C. live with their parents. Mr. Hampton has been, from his boyhood, engaged in merchandizing, and is now in that business in Springfield--1876.
CHARLES B., born March, 1830, in Sangamon county, died March 1, 1874, in Springfield, leaving neither wife nor children.
Samuel C. Hampton died about 1839, and Mrs. Catharine Hampton died Jan. 19, 1859, both in Sangamon county, Illinois.


This page is part of the FREE site located at http://www.rootsweb.com/~illogan/. There is NO charge to access any page on this site. If you have arrived here through a pay site click here to go to the original free Logan County ILGenWeb site.

ROBERT D. CLARK
Robert D. Clark, who has lived retired since 1895, was for many years successfully identified with agricultural interests in Logan county and is now serving as mayor of Mount Pulaski, having been elected to that office in April, 1909. He is numbered among the worthy native sons of this county, his birth having occurred in Laenna township on the 30th of September, 1844.
His father, David W. Clark, who was born in Kentucky on the 30th of September, 1809, came of English ancestry and was descended from Revolutionary stock. The family settled in Kentucky at an early day. When David W. Clark was quite young he accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio, where he was reared to manhood on a farm and attended the country schools in the acquirement of an education. After attaining his majority he came to Illinois, arriving in this state just after the deep snow in the winter of 1831 and taking up his abode in Springfield, where he remained for one or two years. On the expiration of that period he went to Athens, Menard county, where he worked at the carpenter's trade for some five or six years. About 1841 he came to Logan county, settling on a farm in Laenna township and devoting his attention to its operation until 1845. In that year he took up his abode at Mount Pulaski, where he worked at his trade for four years, being also interested in a pottery there. In 1849 he returned to Laenna township, making his home on a farm now owned by our subject and there carrying on general agricultural pursuits until 1890. After putting aside the active work of the fields he again established his home in Mount Pulaski and there spent the remainder of his life in honorable retirement, passing away on the 3d of February, 1892. He had prospered in his undertakings and at the time of his death owned three hundred and seventy-five acres of valuable farming land as well as property in Mount Pulaski. The period of his residence in Logan county covered a half century and he was therefore widely and favorably known within its borders.
His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he capably served in the office of county assessor, also holding several minor township positions. Fraternally he was identified with the Masons, while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Methodist Protestant church.
His wife, who bore the maiden name of Hannah Stought, was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, on the 27th of December, 1810, her parents being Thomas and Sarah (Royal) Stought. Her maternal grandfather, Thomas Royal, was a native of Manchester, England, and served in the Revolutionary war. Her father, Thomas Stought, died in Pennsylvania and in 1826 the mother brought her family to Illinois, settling in Sangamon county. She later became the wife of Isaac Clark and her demise occurred in Fulton county. Mr. Clark of this review is the fourth in order of birth in a family of six children, the others being as follows: Thomas S., a veteran of the Civil war, who is now a retired agriculturist residing in Olympia, Washington; Margaret A., a widow residing in Riverside, California, who first gave her hand in marriage to George Wolfs and later became the wife of William Upp; Isaac T., likewise a veteran of the Civil war, who is now a poultry dealer of Mount Pulaski; Charles R., who also fought in the Union army and whose demise occurred in Wyoming in January, 1910; and Angeline M., the wife of David B. Wacaser, of Mount Pulaski.
Robert D. Clark was reared on the home farm and obtained his early education in the country schools, while subsequently he continued his studies at Indian Point and later entered the Bloomington Normal School. After completing his own education he began teaching in the country schools (there being ten in his native district) and successfully followed that profession for sixteen years, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. He was married February 3, 1873, and then began farming the home place, while subsequently he purchased and located upon another tract of land in Laenna township. In 1895 he abandoned general agricultural pursuits and came to Mount Pulaski, erecting a beautiful home on the corner of Green and Lafayette streets, where he has since resided. He met with success in his farming operations and still owns several hundred acres of rich and productive land in Logan county and elsewhere.
On the 3d of February, 1873, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Kate Edmonds, an adopted daughter of Alexander and Hestor Edmonds, of Mount Pulaski. Her parents were Christopher and Dorothy Bousche. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have one daughter, Minnie L., who is now the wife of Edward O. Mayer, a general merchant, by whom she has two children, Norman C. and Robert W.
Politically Mr. Clark is an advocate of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government. He has held several minor township offices and also served as supervisor of Laenna township. In April, 1909, he was elected mayor of Mount Pulaski and his course as chief executive of the city has won uniform approval and commendation. His fraternal relations are with the Masons, while his wife is a devoted member of the Christian church. He has remained a resident of Logan county from his birth to the present time and is widely recognized as one of its most substantial, respected and representative citizens.
Source: History of Logan County, Illinois, by Lawrence B. Stringer. Chicago: Pioneer Publishing Company [1911]. pp. 188-90.
Submitted by Cheryl Rothwell who shares common Clark ancestors with Robert D. Clark.



[1] Angle, pp. 42-43.
[2] Angle, p. 35.
[3] Power, p. 62.
[4] Power, pp. 221-222.
[5] Lots 7 and 8, Block 16, O.T.P.. Abstracts Deeds, p. 266. Vol. 1. A1-H396. Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[6] Power, p. 44.
[7] (1823-___)
[8] (1827-___)
[9] Power, p. 216. 1881 History, pp. 254-255. They had five children born in Springfield.
[10] Lots 1 and 27, Block 9, O.T.P. Abstracts Deeds, p. 263—Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[11] Lot 7, Block 28. Abstracts Deeds, p. 263—Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[12] Sandburg, v. 1, p. 109.
[13] Angle, p. 34.
[14] Day by Day (1809-1839), p. lix. Day by Day, p. 14.
1881 History, p.260 (get).
Lincoln’s New Salem, Benjamin P. Thomas, The Abraham Lincoln Association, Springfield, Illinois, 1934.
See 1819: Arrival of Andrew Elliott.
[15] Herndon’s Informants, pp. 447-448. Wesley Elliott (Herndon Interview) (1865-66).
[16] Pratt, Public Square.
[17] Angle, p. 43.
[18] Sangamon County Commissioners Records, 1834. IRAD.
[19] Angle, p. 43.
[20] Any Blacks serve in this war?
[21] Power, p. 281
[22] 1881 History, p. 700: In 1831, he enlisted in the Black Hawk war as a member of the company from Sangamon county.
[23] Power, p. 408.
[24] Power, p. 517.
[25] Power, p. 632.
[26] Power, p. 645.
[27] Power, p. 720.
[28] County Commissioners Records, IRAD.
[29] County Commissioners Records, IRAD.
[30] Circuit Court Records, Vol. A, pp, 536-538, A. G. Herndon v. Matheny, IRAD.
[31] County Commissioners Records, IRAD.
[32] Illinois State Historical Library, Manuscript Division, Sangamon County, Illinois County Commissioners Courts SC 333-A.
[33] Power, pp.789- 790.
[34] GET County Commissioners Record.
[35] Illinois State Historical Library, Manuscript Division, Sangamon County, Illinois County Commissioners Court SC 1333-A.
[36] County Commissioners Records, IRAD.
[37] Power, p. 764.
[38] 068 104.
[39] Power, p. 81.
[40] Power, p. 315. 1881 History, pp. 217, 274, 281, 283, 287, 548, 566.
[41] (8/20/1831-_____) Power, p. 592.
[42] County Commissioners Records, IRAD.
[43] She died in 1843. Session Minutes of the First Presbyterian Church, Springfield Illinois, original in the Manuscript Division, Illinois State Historical Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[44] South Side of Madison, between 7th and 8th.
[45] Sangamo Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[46] S ½ Lot 7, Block 19, O.T.P. Abstracts Deeds, p. 264. Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[47] N ½ Lot 7, Block 19, O.T.P. Abstracts Deeds, p. 257. Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[48] They Knew Lincoln, John E. Washington, E. P. Dutton & Co., Inc., New York, 1942, p. 183. (Hereinafter “They Knew Lincoln”.)
[49] Van Meter, p. 17.
[50] They Knew Lincoln, p. 183.
Lincoln Encyclopedia, p. 219.
[51] Power, p. 303.See “Arrival of Feba (Phoebe), Isaac, Daniel and Judah Rountree” at 1829 at page ___.
They had six children, Samuel H. Fleurville, was born in Springfield on May 10, 1832, Alseen, born in December of 1833, Sineet, born in September of 1837, Varveel, born in 1839, and William LaRue, born on March 10, 1840.
[52] 1881 History, pp. 736-737.
[53] Abstracts Deeds, p. 231 —Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois. Recorded no date in Book E, Page 235.
[54] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 2.
[55] Abstracts Deeds, p. 244—Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[56] Abstracts Deeds, p. 246 —Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[57] Lot 5, Block 24. Abstracts Deeds, p. 269 —Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[58] Power, p. 216
[59] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 2.
[60] Abstracts Deeds, p. 232. Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[61] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3.
[62] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 1, cl. 3.
[63] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[64] Journal, January 5, 1832, p. 4, cl. 4.
[65] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 1, cl. 1.
[66] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 1, cl. 2.
[67] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[68] (1796-1872)
[69] The Abraham Lincoln Encyclopedia, p. 116-117.
Power, p. 314.
1881 History, p. 216.
[70] Journal, November 10, 1831, p.1, cl. 1.
[71] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 2, cl. 5.
[72] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[73] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 2, cl. 5.
[74] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3.
[75] Angle, p. 35.
[76] Journal, November 10, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3. Van Meter, p. 9. 1881 History, p. 214.
[77] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 2.
[78] Madden, p. 181.
[79] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[80] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 1, cl. 3.
[81] Angle, p. 44.
[82] Journal, May 17, 1832, p. 3, cl. 5.
[83] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[84] Journal, November 17, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3.
[85] Abstracts Deeds, p. 264. Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[86] By Square and Compass, p. 4-5. Chapin, p. 13.
[87] Temple, Capitol, p. 7-8.
[88] Chapin, p. 13.
[89] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[90] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[91] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 1, cl. 1.
[92] Journal, August 25, 1832, p. 1, cl. 3.
[93] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[94] See 1834, when Frank was given a certificate of freedom in November of 1830.
[95] Lot 6 in Block 12 of the Old Town Plat.
[96] See 1834.
[97] 1881 History, p. 402? Also check 289.
[98] County Commissioners Records, 3rd Vol. C (1828-1832). IRAD.
[99] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[100] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[101] Journal, December 15, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3.
[102] Journal, December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 4.
[103] Journal, December 15, 1831, p. 3, cl. 3.
[104] Journal, December 15, 1831, p. 2, cl. 5.
[105] Lot 7, Block 14, O.T.P. Abstracts Deeds, p. 244—Vol. 1. A1-H396 Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois.
[106] Journal, Spfd. PM, December 22, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5. 1881 History, pp. 149, 198, 272, 282, and 572 (postmaster-1831-36).
[107] Journal, December 22, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[108] Journal, December 22, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[109] Journal: January 5, 1832, p. 3, cl. 4.
[110] Journal: January 12, 1832, p. 1, cl. 1.
[111] Early Marriages of Sangamon County, p. 6. 1881 History, p. 611. Power, p. 240.
[112] Journal: December 1, 1831, p. 3, cl. 5.
[113] Power, p. 779.
[114] (1777-11/24/1843)
[115] (1/29/1774-1846)
[116] (1801-____)
[117] (5/17/1809-10/6/1878)
[118] (1814-12/13/1887)
[119] Section 10, Taylor’s West Addition. Z. Enos: Snow Birds
1881 History, pp. 197 (Stuart), 853, 111 (good).
Power, p. 293.
C.W.: v. I, pp. 206-207: 1840-letter from Lincoln to Stuart mentions Fagans.
[120] 1881 History, pp. 84.
[121] (2/22/1806-3/7/1838)
[122] Power, p. 275.
[123] He died November 9, 1869, leaving the widow and son with a very comfortable estate. His wife followed him in 1878.
1860 C.D.: w.s. of Pasfield, opposite Jackson.
1860 census, p.508 (England)(58).
$50,000/$11,500.
Collected Works, v. I, pp. 43 and 79.
[124] Power, p. 79.
[125] Power, p. 79.
[126] 1881 History, p. 179. Power, p. 396.
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