Ogle County IL

Biography of Charles F. Hemenway

Charles F. Hemenway, a significant figure in Moline’s business sector, was born on November 1, 1846, in Grand de Tour, Illinois. He served in the Civil War with the Twenty-seventh Iowa Infantry at just fifteen years old. After the war, he transitioned into banking, eventually becoming cashier of Moline’s National and Savings Banks until 1900. A Republican and active community member, Hemenway was also involved in local government and held a notary position. He married Mary E. Harrold in 1869, with whom he had five children.

Biography of John Deere

John Deere, born in Vermont in 1804, became a pivotal figure in American agriculture by inventing the steel plow. After apprenticing as a blacksmith, he moved west seeking better opportunities. In Moline, Illinois, he developed a plow that excelled in the challenging prairie soil, leading to the establishment of Deere & Company. His innovative spirit and determination resulted in the production of thousands of plows, earning him recognition worldwide. A dedicated philanthropist and community leader, Deere’s legacy continues through his impactful contributions to farming and society.

Biography of Colonel Elhanan John Searle

Colonel Elhanan J. Searle, born on January 18, 1835, in Ohio, was a distinguished soldier, jurist, and public figure. He served in the Civil War, rising from private to lieutenant-colonel of the First Arkansas Infantry, participating in over forty engagements. Post-war, he practiced law, served as a circuit judge, and was appointed to the Arkansas Supreme Court. A prominent community member, he helped establish Arkansas State University and remained engaged in public affairs. Searle passed away on August 18, 1906, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and dedication.

Biography of W. E. Taylor, M. D.

Dr. W. E. Taylor, born on May 24, 1854, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, has served as the superintendent of the Illinois Western Hospital for the Insane since 1897. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin and Hahnemann Medical College, he is an esteemed authority on nervous diseases. Taylor is also active in politics, having held local offices and been a presidential elector. His administration has seen significant improvements in patient care and facility conditions, earning a reputation for integrity and effective treatment methods.

Biography of Judge J. M. Gould

Judge John M. Gould significantly contributed to the development of Moline, Illinois, through his diverse roles as a merchant, banker, and manufacturer. A descendant of early American settlers, Gould demonstrated exceptional foresight and business acumen, helping establish key industries in the area. He played pivotal roles in founding the First National Bank of Moline and the Moline Water Power Company, and was integral to the city’s first telegraph service. His legacy includes supporting local charities and the establishment of the Moline City Hospital.

Biography of Mansfield M. Sturgeon

Mansfield M. Sturgeon, a prominent attorney in Rock Island County, was born on September 10, 1843, in Ohio. Coming from a lineage steeped in military and civic duty, he pursued law after serving in the Civil War. He opened his own practice in 1872 and became well-known for his legal acumen and sound counsel. Sturgeon held several important public offices, including county superintendent of schools and states attorney. A modest man, he is respected for his contributions to both the legal profession and the community.

Biography of Allen C. Mason

Allen C. Mason is a pivotal figure in Tacoma, Washington, significantly contributing to the city’s development and reputation since his arrival in 1883. Originally from Illinois, he excelled in education and published multiple pedagogical works before transitioning to real estate and loans in Tacoma. Mason’s efforts have facilitated over two million dollars in loans with minimal foreclosures. Respected for his integrity and business acumen, he plays a key role in promoting the city’s growth, embodying its progressive spirit as it evolves into a major Northwest urban center.

Biography of Harrison B. Oatman

Harrison B. Oatman, born on February 25, 1826, in New York, moved with his family to Ohio and eventually to Illinois. In 1853, he journeyed to Oregon, where he engaged in farming, mining, and established the first store in Phoenix. Oatman served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Indian conflicts and earned commendations for his military service. After the war, he settled in Portland, excelling in real estate and grocery businesses. He and his wife Lucena had four children, with the family thriving in their endeavors.

Biography of John Fosha

John Fosha, a prominent farmer from Silver Creek township, Stephenson County, Illinois, has built a successful agricultural legacy through hard work and tenacity. Originating from a German immigrant family, he has amassed significant real estate in both Illinois and Kansas. Fosha’s farming methods focus on maximizing livestock production, and he has cultivated a highly productive home farm. Married in 1856, he and his wife Mina raised twelve children. A respected community member, he has witnessed the transformation of northern Illinois from wilderness to fertile farmland.

Biography of John Piper

John Piper, born on February 7, 1832, in Maryland, is now retired in Freeport, Illinois. He married Mary Myers in 1854, with whom he had six children, and later married Eleanor Humphreys in 1868, having four more children. A successful farmer and carpenter, he owned over 600 acres and shelled over a million bushels of corn. Mr. Piper was an influential figure in his community, serving as school director and road commissioner, and is a member of the Christian church.