BILLINGTON, JOHN, was born Sept. 29, 1819, in the town of Shrewsbury, Shrophshire, England. He came to the United States, landing in New York in June, and arrived early in Aug., 1840, at Springfield. He lived several years in the family of Willard Tinney, on Richland creek, to learn farming. He had learned the business of baker and confectioner in England, and established himself in that business in Springfield. He was married, in Springfield, to Elizabeth A. Cannon. She died Nov., 1851, not leaving any children. He was married March 24, 1853, at Buffalo Hart grove, to Rachel Constant. They have one child--

MARY J., and reside at Dawson.

Mr. Billington erected a residence for himself, where Dawson now stands, in 1854, before there was any station or town laid out. When the postoffice was established in that year, he was appointed Postmaster, which he held about seven years. He was also the first station and express agent at that place, and is yet (1874) acting in that capacity. Mr. Billington's parents, four brothers and one sister, came later. These were William, the civil engineer, now deceased. Thomas resides at Mt. Pulaska, Henry at Waynesville, James and Mary A.