William R. CHAMP, farmer, P.O. Woodlawn, is one of the early settlers of Jefferson County, having come here with his parents, who unloaded their small stock of this world's goods in Grand Prairie Township November 9, 1829.

He was born November 15, 1828 in Lincoln County, Tennessee to Henry and Delanie (BROWN) CHAMP. The father was a Georgian by birth, was a substantial farmer during life, had filled many offices, and was a man who occupied a high position in popular favor. He (the father) died August 30, 1876, aged nearly seventy-three years, his noble wife having departed this life in 1872. Their union had been blessed with twelve children, of whom five sons and two daughters are still living, our subject being the eldest. His early schooling was extremely limited - to a single spelling book he was indebted for all that he obtained. Farming claimed his attention in early life, and he has since made that his exclusive business.

August 5, 1852 he wedded Nancy BOND, a daughter of Mitchell and Elizabeth BOND, and by her raised a family of six children, of whom five survive - Franklin P., William H., Olive M., Benjamin P. and Seymour.

Mr. CHAMP has a farm of 262 2/3 acres, mostly in Casner Township.

He is a member of the I.O.O.F., Woodlawn Lodge No. 522.

Submitted by Janet Johnson
Great Great Great Grandaughter of Henry and Delania CHAMP

SOURCE: History of Jefferson County, Illinois published by Globe Publishing
Submitted: May 24, 1998