The subject of this sketch came to Illinois with his mother at an early day, and married Miss Ann E. Dillon, October 20, 1853. She was born October 7, 1833. She was the daughter of John and Elizabeth Dillon, and came with her parents to Sangamon county about 1833. They have nine children, to-wit: John Ellis, Parthena L., Mary a., James, Robert, Thomas J., Emma J., Fannie and Edward R. James died November 4, 1861; Robert died June 22, 1862; Fannie died August 17, 1871. His advantages of early education were such as the subscription schools afforded in his day, and his wife had about the same. Owns one hundred and sixty acres of land, valued at $60 per acre.