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WILLIAM T. PETERSON is a fine representative of our self-made, self-educated men, and the work that he has accomplished has placed him among the wealthy, intelligent farmers, who have borne so prominent a part in building up the financial prosperity of Jefferson County. He is the son of an early settler, and his own labors entitle him to an honorable place among the pioneers of this county. He is engaged in farming and stock-raising on section 9, Elk Prairie Township, where he has a commodious residence and a farm, that in point of improvements and cultivation rank? among the best in this section of the county. Our subject was born in this county, January 19, 1846, and is the eldest in the family of children born to James and Nancy (Bowman) Peterson. The father was a native of Tennessee, and was only four years of age when he was brought by his parents to Illinois, where he has since made his home, and is now living in the enjoyment of good health at the advanced age of seventy-nine years. His estimable wife died many years ago. William T. was permitted to attend the subscription schools near his home only for a short time, and when but a lad of seven years began working on his father's farm as a plow boy. When he began life on his own account he was quite poor in this .world's goods, and had to depend entirely on his hands and head. He has been very successful in the management of his farm, which he has placed under the best methods of improvements, and now ranks among the progressive grain and stock raisers of this township. He has on his place some fine breeds of animals, and has been engaged in biding and selling stock for the past twenty years. The lady to whom our subject was married May 4, 1866, was Miss Sarah E., daughter of Stinson and Effle (Bodine) Shelton, and of their union has been born a family of eight children, one of whom died in infancy. Of those living, James married Ollie Beckham, and makes his home in Elk Prairie Township, as does also Martha, who is the wife of Samuel Kirk. Andrew Jackson, Thomas Tilden, Charles H., Daniel G. and Grover C., are all at home. As the reader doubtless knows, our subject is an ardent Democrat in politics, and has always taken an active part in local affairs. He has been Highway Commissioner, School Director aud is at present Supervisor of his township, which office he has held for the past five years. Mr. Peterson is a man of pleasant manners, and his mai.y sterling qualities and quiet, unassuming disposition have won him a high place in the esteem of his fellow citizens.
Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, Illinois" |
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