MRS. LAURA H. OLCOTT, who resides on section 21, Rochester township, has for almost a quarter of a century made her home in this county, having removed from New Hampshire to Illinois in 1867. She was born on the 16th of September, 1835, in Readsboro, Vt., and is a daughter of Peter and Sarah (Carley) Holbrook, the former a native of Richland, N.H., and the latter of Windham County, Vt. Upon their marriage they settled in Whitingham, Vt., where Mr. Holbrook engaged in farming until his death. His wife also died at that place.

Mrs. Olcott is the eldest of their twelve children and they days of her maidenhood were spent in the Green Mountain State, where she formed the acquaintance of James H. Olcott. He sought her hand in marriage and on the 8th of March, 1860, they were united in the holy bonds of matrimony. Mr. Olcott was born August 1, 1832, in West Swanzey, N.H., and was a son of James and Melinda (Holbrook) Olcott. They began their domestic life in West Swanzey where for seven years they made their home, coming to Sangamon County, Ill., in 1867. They settled in Rochester Township where Mr. Olcott devoted himself to farming until his death which occurred November 15, 1881. He owned two hundred and fifty acres of rich farming land and in pursuit of his chosen business acquired a good income which amply supplied the wants of himself and family. He gave little attention to public affairs, unless he could aid in the advancement of some enterprise which would prove of benefit to the community, but devoted himself to his home and family. He never sought political office but quietly went his way, attending to his business interests and winning friends by his genial and courteous manner. Five children were left to mourn his loss - Charles J., who married Miss Flora Johnson; Rufus W., Herbert H., Carrie N. and Bertha M. The mother and her children still reside upon the old home farm where they are surrounded by the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. Her children represent the third generation in a family that is noted for its abstinence from the use of tobacco or any stimulant, and to this fact she attributes the general good health of her family, having never had occasion to call in a physician. She is a member of the Christian Church, lives a consistent life and is an ardent worker in the temperance cause. She holds membership in the Women's Christian Temperance Union and was instrumental in organizing the Loyal Legion, a temperance society for children. Laboring incessantly in this work with the good of the community at heart she deserves no little success for the work she has performed.