Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1263

GOMES, ELI , a lifelong resident of Springfield, Ill., was born on Tenth, between Reynolds and Mason Streets, in 1855, a son of Joseph Gomes, an old citizen of Springfield, who passed away there in 1902. The family is given more extended mention in connection with a sketch of John Gomes, to be found in this work. Joseph Gomes was a native of Madeira Island and came to the United States as a young man, locating in North Carolina, whence he emigrated to Springfield, Ill., about the middle of the nineteenth century. He worked in various capacities for others for some years and later established himself in mercantile business, retailing groceries and other goods. He lived to the age of eighty-one years. His wife, Johanna Gomes, was also a native of Madeira, as a young girl accompanied her parents to Springfield, Ill., and there her death occurred, at the age of seventy years. Nine children were born of this union: Joseph, deceased; Eli; Eliza, Mrs. Martin of Springfield; Julia, Mrs. James Krim, of Springfield; Johanna, Mrs. John Reidner; Sarah, deceased, was the wife of Philip DeFrates; Virginia, Mrs. Kelley, deceased; David, living with his father and Wilbert, deceased.

Eli Gomes received but a limited education and early began working for his living, turning his attention and energy to any honest work by which he might earn money. He has followed various occupations since reaching his majority and has been fairly successful, having acquired some property and won the respect of his fellows by his upright, reliable disposition and his regard for the highest principles of honor. He was married to Miss Jennie Rodicks, of Springfield. Mr. Gomes and his wife reside at 718 North Eleventh Street, where they have a comfortable and well-appointed home. Children has been born to them as follows: Edward, of Springfield; Ida, Mrs. T. Haynes; Stella; Mary, Mrs. Frank Boehning; Mollie, wife of William Cort; Wilbert and Joseph, at home. All live in Springfield. Mr. Gomes belongs to one of the old Portuguese families who have done so much in the upbuilding and development of the city of Springfield. He is a stanch Republican in political belief. He is well known as an industrious and useful citizen and has the highest esteem of all who have had dealings with him.