Randolph County IL Genealogy – Access Genealogy

History of Prairie du Rocher

Map of the Illinois Country from the Illinois to the Ohio

In January 1799, Prairie du Rocher buzzed with excitement as Col. George Rogers Clark and his soldiers arrived, leading to a lively ball at Captain Jean Baptiste Barbeau’s home. However, news of an imminent attack disrupted festivities, prompting Clark and local young men to prepare for defense, though the expected assault did not occur. The village, founded in 1722, was characterized by a simple, communal lifestyle among early French settlers, who engaged in agriculture and maintained harmonious relations with Native Americans, fostering a rich cultural legacy.

The Barbeau Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Henry I. Barbeau, the current head of the well-respected Barbeau family in Randolph County, was born on February 1, 1863, on the farm he currently manages. His lineage in Prairie du Rocher spans generations, with his father, Henry Barbeau, having passed away in 1902. Married in 1882, he and his wife had seven children. In addition to farming 450 acres, Barbeau is active in public service and local politics, demonstrating a versatile engagement in both community and personal interests.

The Langlois Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Tracing the descendants of Ettienne Langlois, founder of Prairie du Rocher, proves challenging. He married Catherine Beaudrau and had several children, including Marie Louise and Marie Josefine, among others. Ettienne had two brothers, August and Louis. Pierre Langlois, possibly related, married Catherine Normand Labriere and had two children. His daughter, Marie Louise, entered a marriage contract in 1785. Pierre Langlois passed away in 1789, with his widow managing his estate shortly thereafter.

The Moskop Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Mr. Frank Moskop, born in 1866 in Monroe City, Illinois, is a notable figure in Prairie du Rocher, known for his successful management of the Nanson Commission Company since 1903. He began his career in a flour mill and worked as a salesman before settling in Prairie du Rocher. Married to Elizabeth Stiegler in 1891, they have four children. Additionally, Mr. Moskop has contributed to the community as a school board member and is active in church and local politics.

The Coerver Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Killian Coerver, born on April 10, 1861, in Monroe County, Illinois, was a prominent miller and community leader. After studying at local schools, he began his career in public service and became county treasurer from 1886 to 1890. He joined the Koenigsmark Milling Company in 1890 and later helped establish the Schoening-Koenigsmark Milling Company in Prairie du Rocher, where he served as secretary-treasurer. Married in 1885 to Mary Schuell, they had three children. Coerver was active in the Knights of Columbus and the Fort Chartres Association.

The Hauck Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Residence of Chas. Hauck, Prairie du Rocher

Charles Hauck, born on May 31, 1864, in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, was a prominent livestock dealer in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. After apprenticing as a butcher, he established a meat market in 1889, later expanding into horse and mule trading. A dedicated community member, he played a crucial role in organizing the local bank and served as a village trustee for 22 years. He married Mary Sucher, with whom he had one son, Archibald. Hauck was also a landowner and active supporter of the Catholic Church.

The Hoef Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Mr. Hoef, born March 16, 1851, in Cobenz, Germany, emigrated to the United States in 1865 with his family. Settling in Madonnaville, he later rented and improved 54 acres of land near Prairie du Rocher, eventually expanding his farm to 240 acres. He married Elizabeth Crewet in 1884, who contributed significantly to church activities. The couple had three children, and Mr. Hoef, a dedicated Democrat and member of the Catholic Knights of America, remains an active member of the community and church.

The Mudd Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

James Duncan Mudd, a notable farmer in Prairie du Rocher, descends from one of Randolph County’s oldest settler families, whose roots trace back to 1633 in Maryland. The Mudds migrated through Kentucky, where his great-grandfather, Francis Mudd, served in the War of 1812 before settling in Illinois. James T. Mudd, his father, expanded the family farm, ultimately cultivating 380 acres. James Duncan Mudd, born in 1862, has continued this legacy, now owning 440 acres and contributing significantly to his community and Church.

The Ker Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Henry Ker, born in 1829 to the adventurous Henry Ker, a physician and early settler in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, faced numerous hardships in his early life. After a stint in California during the Gold Rush, he returned to farming but suffered losses due to floods. He married twice, raising two children with his second wife, Mary Phegley. Ker became a successful farmer, transforming wilderness into fertile land through hard work and perseverance, earning a reputation for integrity in Randolph County.

Indians about Prairie du Rocher Illinois

The arrival of early French settlers in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois coincided with fertile silt deposits from the Mississippi River, which facilitated agriculture. The French adopted Indigenous corn planting practices and enjoyed leisure time due to the lack of soil tillage. However, the region’s humid climate contributed to a sense of lethargy, impacting cultural development among local tribes, such as the Metchigamias, who integrated into the Illinois Confederacy from 1718-1723. The area reflects a peaceful coexistence between the French and Indigenous peoples while preserving historical sites.

History of Education at Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Pioneer schools in Prairie du Rocher were typically constructed from logs with clapboard roofs and large fireplaces for heat. Classrooms were basic, often lacking proper lighting and furniture, with students using slates for writing. Early education began as subscription schools, with lessons in fundamental subjects facilitated by itinerant teachers, often men. By 1885, a parochial school was established, marking a significant step in organized education, supported by early legislation promoting public schooling. The area evolved with teachers like Peter Gregory Ehresmann, contributing to local educational development.

The Conner Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Conner's General Merchandise Store, Prairie du Rocher

William S. Conner, born in 1815 in Randolph County, Illinois, is a descendant of the influential Conner family, originally of Irish descent. His father, Henry Conner, a prominent figure in local politics, served as sheriff for seven years and was active in public affairs. After experimenting with business in St. Louis and mining in Wisconsin, William returned to Randolph County in 1858, settling near his birthplace. He left a legacy through his six children, three of whom are still living.

The Blais Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

The Blais family is a significant part of Prairie du Rocher’s history, with roots tracing back to the original French settlers. Antoine Blais, born in 1809, was a blacksmith and a prominent figure in the community. After a successful stint in California during the gold rush, he returned to Prairie du Rocher, where he was involved in the mercantile business. His descendants, including Gilbert Blais, continued to cultivate the land and contribute to the local community. The family’s enduring ties to the region reflect its longstanding heritage and commitment to its traditions.

The Grassinger Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

John Grassinger, born on July 6, 1836, in Bavaria, immigrated to the United States in 1850, settling in St. Louis. Orphaned shortly after, he became a gardener before purchasing a farm in 1865. He later retired to town and was married to Mary M. Chapen, with whom he had four children. A Democrat and active in the local Catholic Knights and school board, he remains a well-known figure in Prairie du Rocher. Mary passed away in 1908.

The Didier Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

The Didier family, notable French settlers in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, traces its roots back to Paulin Didier, who emigrated with his parents in 1847. The family initially settled in Cahokia before moving to a farm near Prairie du Rocher in 1854, where Paulin became a successful farmer. Born in 1845, he passed away in 1907. His wife, Leonline Bige, born in 1858, contributed significantly to their household and farm’s success. After Paulin’s death, she continued to manage the farm, focusing on chicken raising.

The Louvier Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

John N. Louvier, born in 1802, is the oldest resident of Prairie du Rocher, having spent his life in the area. He is the son of Antoine Louvier, a Frenchman who settled in Randolph County in the late 18th century. John became a successful farmer, known for his impressive corn yields, and married twice, fathering twelve children. He has witnessed the transformation of Prairie du Rocher from a modest village to a thriving community. Louvier remains a symbol of the town’s rich history and industrious spirit.

The Blow Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Mr. W. A. Blow, born on September 9, 1860, near Prairie du Rocher, was a dedicated farmer who worked alongside his father for 27 years before renting his own land in 1887. By 1893, he owned 70 acres, which he later expanded to 155 acres. He married Lucy Gressinger in 1889, and they had four children. Mr. Blow became active in stock raising and was well-known in the community, receiving recognition for his contributions to the Church. His parents, Joseph and Lala Blow, were also noted local farmers.

The Kribs Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

C. J. Kribs, born in Belleville, Illinois, in 1867, had a diverse career before becoming the circuit clerk of Randolph County. He worked various jobs including harness making and in the Illinois Steel Works, before settling in Prairie du Rocher. In 1894, he opened a harness store and later expanded his business. Elected to public office, he served as mayor and held several fraternal society memberships. His wife, Susan, and their four sons, Harold, Lewis, Charles, and William, also contributed to the community’s educational and business landscape.

The Shea Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

John Shea, born June 20, 1858, in Randolph County near Prairie du Rocher, became a well-known farmer in Red Bud, Illinois. After working for his father, he rented a farm in 1880 and settled at his current location in 1885. He married Katherine Faherty on September 25, 1883, and they had six children. Mrs. Shea passed away on April 21, 1915. John served as a trustee of the Ruma Church for nine years and was held in high regard by the community.

The Wierschem Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

The history of Prairie du Rocher is shaped by its notable figures, among whom John Wierschem stands out. Born on August 3, 1868, in Madonnaville, he came from a large family and transitioned from farming with his father to owning a 65-acre farm in Prairie du Rocher after his father’s death. He married Zoe Thuillier in 1893, and they had four children. Wierschem entered politics in 1912 as road commissioner, embodying a dedication to public service throughout his life.