WELCH, ABEDNEGO RICHARDSON. - There have been many changes in Sangamon County during the past forty years, and those who located in the 'sixties and 'seventies bear witness to the truth of this statement. More than anything else has the value of farm land altered, now being so valuable that a number of farmers are specializing on a few acres, producing some of the finest fruit and vegetables to be found on the market. A farmer who has grown with the advance in everything, is Abednego Richardson Welch, of Springfield Township, born in Washington County, Ind., October 24, 1837, a son of Enoch F. and Mabel (Powell) Welch, the former born in Kentucky in 1812.

The parents came to Indiana at a very early day, but later migrated to Morgan County, Ill., where the father died in 1875, having been a farmer all his life. His wife passed away when sixty-one years old. The paternal great-grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier. As Enoch F. Welch moved about to a considerable extent during the boyhood of Abednego, the latter did not receive much education until he was twenty two years old, when he paid for tuition. He worked for his father, learning how to farm, and when he began for himself adopted this calling, and has continued in it all his life. In 1863 Mr. Welch came to Sangamon County, and since then has not been more than a mile from home. For twenty seven years he has lived on his present farm of seven and one-half acres, which he has developed into a fine property.

Mr. Welch was married in Springfield, in January, 1864, to Elizabeth Hammonds, a daughter of Harrison and Delila Hammonds, who came to Illinois at an early day, from Indiana, bot both are now deceased. Mrs. Welch died November 13, 1883, having borne her husband children as follows: Permelia, wife of George Langfield, a farmer of Sangamon County; Lucy, wife of William Brown, a miner; Hester, wife of William Hahn, a dairyman; Rosetta, and four who are deceased. Miss Rosetta had the misfortune to be born blind, but her father has given her so superior an education that she has many resources that might otherwise be denied her. There are sixteen grandchildren and one great grand child in the family.

The family are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Welch is a Democrat and is enthusiastic in his support of its candidates and principles. His devotion to his blind daughter is a beautiful thing, and she repays his love and care with a touching affection. The family stand high in the neighborhood, and Mr. and Miss Welch have many warm, personal friends who appreciate their excellent qualities.