J. J. Beall, student at law, Mattoon; was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Nov. 26, 1843; his father came with his family to Illinois in the fall of 1852, and settled in Wayne Co. Here he engaged in farming. The subject of this sketch passed his life upon the farm and obtained his education at the common schools. In February, 1862, he left home, and began the trade of saddle and harness maker; he worked under instruction three years; he then worked as journeyman at his trade till 1870; in December, 1870, he was appointed Deputy Sheriff of Coles Co., under A. M. Brown, Sheriff. This position he held two years. In 1873, he was elected Justice of the Peace in Mattoon Tp., and served four years. In May, 1877, he began work again at his trade, and Jan. 28, 1878, entered the office of Craig & Craig as clerk and student. He was married Dec. 26, 1867, to Ellen McGuire, a native of Ireland. Has three children – -James R., Julian E. and Louisa A. Owns real estate in the city. In 1874, he was chosen Assistant Supervisor of Mattoon Tp.; in January, 1878, he was appointed and commissioned by Gov. Cullom a Notary Public for Coles Co. for four years.
