Peoria County IL

Biography of William T. Cohenour

William T. Cohenour, born on March 7, 1877, in Pittsfield, Illinois, became a notable figure in the automobile industry in Muskogee after establishing his agency in 1919. He initially arrived in the southwest in 1903, engaging in various commercial ventures, including retail jewelry and banking. Cohenour is recognized for his expertise in sales, particularly with Chalmers and Maxwell cars. Married to Lelia Hoss, he has two children and enjoys golf and hunting. He is also active in community organizations and adheres to strong moral principles.

Biography of Isaac E., Lambert, Sr.

Isaac E. Lambert, Sr., a distinguished attorney in Kansas, tragically lost his life in the 1908 Copeland Hotel fire at age fifty-five. Born in 1853 in Illinois, he developed a successful legal practice in Emporia after moving there in 1875, specializing in criminal and corporate law. Notably, he served as U.S. district attorney and was involved in local politics. He was married to Hattie Barnes, who passed away in 1907, and had seven children. His son, Isaac E. Lambert, Jr., now a prominent lawyer in Emporia, continues his legacy.

Swinger, Polly Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Polly Swiger, age 81, passed away on October 9, 1910, at her home near Union, Oregon. Born on September 29, 1829, in Jackson County, Ohio, she married N. Swiger in 1851 and moved to Oregon in 1864. The couple had seven children, four of whom survive her. Mrs. Swiger’s funeral was held at the Presbyterian Church on October 12. She is remembered as a devoted family member, with surviving siblings also honoring her life.

Swiger, Polly Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Polly Swiger, aged 81, passed away at her residence near Union, Oregon, on October 9, 1910. Born Polly Wilkinson on September 29, 1829, in Ohio, she later moved to Illinois and then Nebraska with her husband, N. Swiger, whom she married in 1851. The couple relocated to Oregon in 1864, eventually settling in the Grande Ronde Valley. They had seven children, four of whom survive her. Polly was buried at the Presbyterian church on October 12.

Wicks, H. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. H. Wicks passed away on June 21 at her ranch near North Powder after a prolonged illness. A respected pioneer in the community for 43 years, she was born in Ireland and immigrated to the U.S. at age four. Mrs. Wicks married Harrison Wicks in Illinois, and they settled in North Powder, where she lived until her death. She is survived by five children. Funeral services were held at the local Methodist church, with many community members attending to honor her memory.

Wilkinson, John – Obituary

John Wilkinson, born July 30, 1839, in Peoria, Illinois, was a prominent pioneer in Union County, Oregon, where he resided for 42 years until his death in Walla Walla, Washington. He journeyed westward in 1858, eventually settling in High Valley after leading a family caravan across the Rockies in 1864. Married in 1873 to Sarah Vansel, he had four children, two of whom survive him. A respected Democrat, Wilkinson actively avoided politics. His funeral on October 6 was well-attended, reflecting his legacy and community ties.

Wilkinson, Thomas – Obituary

Thomas Wilkinson passed away on March 23, 1922, at the age of 85 in High Valley, Oregon. Born in Peoria County, Illinois, he traveled west to Oregon in 1864 and was married to Lydia A. Rundall in 1879, with whom he had four children. He was a dedicated farmer and stockman, known for his kindness and integrity. Survived by his children, grandchildren, a sister, a brother, and many friends, he was laid to rest beside his wife at Union cemetery.

O’Farrell, James R. – Obituary

James R. O’Farrell, 80, of Orting, passed away on September 25, 1953. A prominent figure in local politics, he served as mayor, councilman, and county commissioner, and managed the Orting Funeral Home for over 50 years. Born to pioneer parents, he was active in community affairs and held various positions in the Caterpillar Tractor Company. After retiring, he enjoyed traveling. He is survived by his wife, Lena, and three children. Funeral services will be held at the Orting Methodist Episcopal Church.

Street, Victoria Hewitt – Obituary

Victoria Hewitt Street, born March 16, 1878, in Streeter, Illinois, passed away at her home in Sturgis on April 20, 1965. Married in 1899 to Leslie Street, they moved to South Dakota in 1911. She is survived by her son Harry, daughters May Fuller and Evelyn Marshall, a sister, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Following funeral services at F. O. Jolley Funeral Home, she was interred at Bear Butte Cemetery. She was preceded in death by eight siblings.

Peoria Tribe

The Peoria Tribe, a significant member of the Illinois Confederacy, originally inhabited regions along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. They faced decline due to conflicts with northern tribes and were eventually forced to relocate, primarily due to treaties with the United States from 1818 to 1868. After consolidations with other tribes, the Peoria settled in Kansas before moving to Indian Territory (Oklahoma). Early population estimates were unreliable, with substantial reductions noted by the early 19th century, culminating in 192 recorded members in 1906.

Biography of Hon. Samuel S. Guyer

The Honorable Samuel S. Guyer, born on December 26, 1814, in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, was a notable figure in Illinois history. After moving to Peoria in 1839, he engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures, including building flat boats and managing mining and railroad companies. His legal career began in Rock Island, where he defended the Redings in a high-profile case and served as Sheriff. Elected County Court Judge in 1871, he was known for his community contributions, including the founding of Chippiannock Cemetery. He passed away on February 20, 1883.

Biographical Sketch of Henry E. Brown

Henry E. Brown, born in Elmwood, Peoria County, Illinois, pursued his education in Peoria after age sixteen, culminating in a Bachelor of Physics from Grinnell College in 1899. He has dedicated his career to the Rock Island Public Schools, progressing from teacher to high school principal. An advocate for education, he leads the Western Section of the Northern Illinois Teachers Association and has authored a widely used textbook. At 35, he married Bertha Hanna in 1906.

Biography of Frank A. Landee

Frank A. Landee, born in Sweden in 1852, epitomizes the self-made man. Immigrating to the U.S., he rose from humble beginnings through relentless effort, ultimately becoming a prominent retail grocer in Moline. His community involvement spans numerous organizations, including leadership roles at Augustana College and the Swedish Lutheran Church. Landee earned widespread respect as a telegraph foreman before his retirement from the railroad industry, where he was honored by his workers. His unwavering dedication to civic duty and family reflects his status as a treasured citizen of his community.

Biography of Rev. George W. Gue

Reverend George W. Gue, though not a permanent resident of Rock Island, significantly impacted the community as pastor of the First Methodist Church and architect of its current building. Born in Ohio in 1840 and raised in Illinois, he became the youngest member of the Central Illinois Conference. During the Civil War, he served as Chaplain of the 108th Illinois Regiment. After years as presiding elder in various districts, he moved to Portland, Oregon, where he passed away in 1901. He left behind a wife and four children.

Biography of Guy V. Pettit

Guy V. Pettit, born on July 17, 1868, in Illinois, is a prominent country newspaper editor known for his ability to connect with his community through the Reynolds Press. His early life included teaching and leadership roles in education before he acquired the newspaper in 1897. Pettit has played an active role in local governance and fraternal organizations while maintaining a Republican stance. Married to Jennie Repine, they share two sons, showcasing his dedication to both family and public service.

Biography of Francis Fletcher

Francis Fletcher, born on March 1, 1814, in Yorkshire, England, was a significant early settler in Oregon, arriving two years before the Provisional government. He traveled to Oregon in 1839, inspired by a lecture from Reverend Jason Lee. Fletcher faced numerous challenges during the journey but ultimately reached the Willamette Valley after thirteen months. He settled in Lafayette, where he became a community leader. Fletcher married Elizabeth Smith in 1843 and passed away on October 7, 1871, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and service.

Biography of Alfred Hovenden

Alfred Hovenden, born on August 26, 1824, in Kent, England, was a prominent pioneer known for his benevolence and integrity. At age 20, he immigrated to America, eventually settling in Illinois before journeying to Oregon in search of new opportunities. He claimed 320 acres in the Willamette Valley, cultivating a successful farming and currant business. Married in 1856 to Sarah Soden, they established a well-respected household and raised a notable family. Hovenden’s legacy continued through his son and daughters, who contributed to Oregon’s social fabric.