Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1666:

TOMLINSON, ELIZABETH ELLEN - In these days of women's advancement, members of the gentler sex are not only entering all lines of business and professions, but are ably demonstrating their right to be there and maintaining the highest standards of excellence. One of the best photographers of Springfield is a woman, and in her work she displays so artistic a sense of the possibilities of her profession and such keen appreciation of detail, that she has a large patronage, and some of the best photographs made in the city bear her name. She is a native of the city, born February 7, 1877, a daughter of Nicholas B. and Sarah Margaret (Gillock) Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson was a steam fitter, and spent his life in Springfield, although his parents came from Kentucky to the new State capital. Miss Tomlinson was educated in Sangamon County and Springfield schools, and early showed aptitude. She was a favorite with teachers and pupils alike, and a brilliant future was mapped out for her.

When only thirteen years of age, Miss Tomlinson was forced to earn her living, and obtained employment in the woolen mills. However, to such an ambitious girl, this work was not satisfying, so she learned to be a photographer, studying at night, after a day of hard work. By 1896 she was proficient enough to begin working at the profession and later opened her studio on Adams Street, where she has every appliance and convenience for the successful prosecution of her profession.

Miss Tomlinson is an earnest and consistent member of the Baptist Church, always ready to give of her time and money towards its good work and is valued in the congregation. The success of these earnest women, who allow nothing to stand in the way of their advancement, but rise steadily through sheer perseverance, may well be an encouragement to others of their sex who are trying to make a place for themselves and prove their worth and capability.