Page 1527

POGUE, JOHN F. - Now that many years have passed since the Civil War ended, the people of the country can view fairly and without discrimination the services rendered by the men who responded to what they believed to be their duty, and fought bravely and well for the cause they loved. While the ranks of the old soldiers are yearly thinning, many still remain, to be the objects of veneration and respectful affection from those who are now profiting from their bravery and patriotism. One of the best known veterans of Springfield is John F. Pogue, now living retired, but who for many years was associated with the oil industry, as well as with other interests. He was born in Clermont county, Ohio, December 9, 1829, a son of Thomas E. and Grace (Gilkeron) Pogue, both born in Augusta County, Va., he in 1798, and she in 1803. The father was a farmer, who resided in Virginia until 1822, but in that year moved to Ohio, which remained his home until 1854. Becoming imbued with a confidence in Illinois, he moved to the State in 1854, but lived only a year thereafter, dying in 1855, tenderly beloved by his family, to whom he had been greatly attached. His father had been a Revolutionary soldier who located in Virginia, and there spent the remainder of his life, retaining the title of General, which he had won during the war. He also gained distinction in connection with his services as Government Surveyor.

John F. Pogue attended college in Ohio, having been prepared for the course by a boyhood spent in farm work and attendance in the district school. Following his leaving college he taught school in Montgomery County, from 1854, to 1856, having moved to the State in the former year. At the outbreak of the war he enlisted, in April, 1861, one of the first to respond to President Lincoln's call for troops, serving three years and three months as a non-commissioned officer. He participated in the Siege of Vicksburg as well as other important engagements, and was wounded. Returning home, he resumed the labors interrupted by his military career, but in 1866 went to Lafayette, Ind., which continued his place of business for five years, during which time he was engaged in a mercantile line, but once more he came to Illinois, and for twelve years successfully operated an extensive oil business in Springfield, eventually retiring.

Mr. Pogue was married in Springfield, April 8, 1868, to Virginia V. Fox, born in Sangamon County, in 1842. Her parents were also Virginians, who came to Sangamon County at an early day and remained there the remainder of their lives. Mr. and Mrs. Pogue have had one child, Grace May, born May 30, 1869. Mr. Pogue has been a Republican since the formation of the party, and served as Township Clerk and for many terms was School Director, rendering the community valuable service by the interest he displayed in educational matters. From 1863 to 1865 he was in the Provost General's office at Springfield. He belongs to the G.A.R., and the Veterans' Union, and is interested in both organizations. The First Methodist Church, of Springfield holds his membership, and for years he has been its loyal supporter, both as to means and energy. Like his forbears, Mr. Pogue has always been fond of his home and loved ones, but he has been ready to render service to those who needed it, and his neighbors and all who have been associated with him appreciate and honor his many excellent traits of character.