Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1099:

CALDWELL, JAMES E. , of the law firm of Caldwell & Caldwell, of Springfield, Ill., has won a reputation in his profession for ability and integrity, and is well known in Sangamon County, where his entire life has been spent. Mr. Caldwell is a self-made man, having acquired his ability and fitness for his chosen field of work. He was born on a farm near Williamsville, Sangamon County, August 14, 1871, and is a son of George M. and Kitty (Robards) Caldwell, the former born near Lexington, Ky., in 1833, and the latter born in Lexington in 1837, daughter of Otho L. and Catherine Robards. George M. Caldwell was married in Kentucky and soon after came to Illinois, where he purchased a small farm near Williamsville, and became one of the successful and prominent men of that vicinity. He carried on general farming there and added to his possessions from time to time until he owned 320 acres of land, which he developed to a high state of cultivation. He became well known for his fine shorthorn cattle and Berkshire hogs and found their breeding very profitable. He is a strong Democrat and has held several township offices.

Children as follows were born to George M. Caldwell and his wife: George R., of Sangamon County; Otho L., a successful attorney, who has held the office of Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Sangamon County; John Young, a farmer of Logan County; James E.; Elizabeth, died young; C. Mae.

In boyhood James E. Caldwell attended the district schools of Sangamon County, where he applied himself with good results, being fond of study. He afterwards followed teaching in the district schools for four years, then entered the law office of Patton, Hamilton & Patton, where he continued several years, being admitted to the Bar before the Supreme Court at Springfield, June 7, 1899. The following September Mr. Caldwell opened an office in Springfield, where he soon established himself in the confidence and good-will of the people and built up a good practice. He has bright prospects for his future career and is recognized as a man of sterling qualities and high character.

Mr. Caldwell married Bessie, daughter of Wesley and Martha (Wigginton) Council, of Williamsville, and this union has been blessed by children as follows: George Ernest and James E. Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell have many friends in Springfield, where they have established themselves in the respect and esteem of all with whom they are associated.