TOBIN, SAMUEL A. (deceased). - The records of Springfield show the names of a number of public-spirited men whose influence for good was not confined to their business affairs, but extended to public activities as well. Among those who were of great service to the city, although he led a quiet life and possessed an unassuming disposition, was the late Samuel Tobin, born in Guernsey County, Ohio, December 10, 1852, a son of Isaac and Matilda (Benton) Tobin, natives of Virginia. Mr. Tobin was educated in Sangamon County, and worked with his parents on the farm until he moved to Springfield. He studied until he secured a teacher's certificate, and taught school, becoming Principal of the schools of Rochester, Ill., but in 1890 returned to Springfield, which continued his home until his demise. After locating in the city permanently, he embarked in the mercantile trade, becoming one of the most prosperous merchants there, and acted as Secretary of the Retail Merchants' Association. He also served eight years as Deputy Circuit Clerk. While he was a Democrat in politics, he took no active part in public matters, as he was too much engrossed with his business affairs.

Mr. Tobin married, at Rochester, December 26, 1882, Lida Highmore, daughter of John S. and Mary (Cloyd) Highmore, the former a native of England, and the latter of Illinois. Mr. Highmore came to Sangamon County at an early day and participated in many movements of the time, which were connected with the development of that part of the State. He was well known as a stock dealer, acquired considerable wealth, and served on the Board of Agriculture. Ms. Tobin was born at Rochester, December 28, 1863,l and grew up in her native town. She attended the Rochester school and later the Illinois Woman's College at Jacksonville. Both she and her husband joined the Methodist Church soon after their marriage. Mrs. Tobin had the misfortune to lose her husband February 20, 1903, and survived him several years, passing away January 22, 1910.

Children as follows were born to Mr. and Mrs. Tobin: Chester, who married, September 5, 1906; Afrey Nead, resides at Mandan, N. Dak., one child, Ruth; Chelsae Armiza, married William J. Barnes, Jr., issue, William Tobin; Lilah Highmore is unmarried and lives with her sister, Mrs. Barnes, at No. 215 West Edwards Street, Springfield. Mr. Barnes is a traveling salesman.