JOHN GROSS is successfully pursuing farming on the fertile soil of Auburn Township, and his skill and thorough practical knowledge of his calling have been potent factors in producing the present solid prosperity of this locality. He was born in Switzerland, December 29, 1825, and when he was about seven years old he left the home of his birth and came with his parents to this country. They located in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. When he was about fifteen years old he began to clerk in a country store, and was thus engaged for nearly twenty years in the county mentioned. Then, tiring of his sedentary employment and desiring a more active life, he turned his attention to farming and with his brother bought a farm there. The brothers continued together about two years and then our subject sold his interest in the farm to his brother and the two ensuing years was variously engaged.

In the spring of 1865 Mr. Gross went to Iowa, and after spending a few months in that State and staying awhile in Missouri came to Sangamon County in the fall of the same year and since that date has been a resident of Auburn Township. In 1867 he bought the farm upon which he now lives. Its one hundred and sixty acres have been placed under excellent cultivation and the place is in every way well improved, supplied with neat buildings and other substantial evidences of thrifty and able management so that it forms one of the most desirable pieces of property in the neighborhood.

Mr. Gross was first married in Coshocton County, Ohio, October 14, 1860, to Maria R. McMath. She bore him one child who died in infancy. Mrs. Gross died after a short but happy wedded life December 20, 1862. Our subject's marriage to his present estimable wife was consummated in Tuscarawas County, February 9, 1871, and its felicity has been enhanced by the birth of two children - Charles M. and Livinia M. Mrs. Gross is a native of Belmont County, Ohio, where she was born May 31, 1832.

Since coming to Sangamon County Mr. Gross has given his entire attention to farming, and as we have seen, has done well and is classed among the most substantial members of his calling in the township. He has been a School Director and in that capacity has served the public well. He takes an intelligent view of politics and gives his support to the Democratic party. He and his wife are among the influential members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They are very pleasant, hospitable people, kindly and charitable in their dealings with others, and have many warm friends.