My Genealogy Hound

CYRUS, GEORGE W., publisher of the Camp Point Journal; was born in Houston township, Adams county, Ill., March 15, 1842, being the third son of Henry A. Cyrus, and Athaliah G. Ruddell. His father died in 1847, leaving his widow the care of five children, the oldest being ten. His mother struggled heroically to rear her family and pay the debt on the farm, which she eventually accomplished, and has the satisfaction of knowing that her children all became respectable members of society. In the spring of 1858, George went west and remained at Kansas City until the breaking out of the rebellion, earning his living and valuable experience by daily labor. During 1861, he returned to Illinois and engaged in teaching school and farming; was married Sept. 22, 1863 to Emily C. Strickler, of Houston township. In 1867 he moved to Camp Point, where he entered the drug and stationary trade, first as a member of the firm of Sawyer & Cyrus, then Strickler & Cyrus, Cyrus & Gay, and Cyrus & Bailey. He was the Republican candidate for Circuit Clerk in 1868, but was defeated by John W. Moorehead, the county being Democratic by 800 majority. In April, 1869, he received the appointment of Postmaster at Camp Point, which position he continues to hold. January, 1873, in connection with Thomas Bailey, he purchased the material of the defunct Enterprise newspaper office and established the Camp Point Journal, of which he is now sole proprietor. He has been prominent in Masonic circles, having served as Master of Benjamin Lodge, No. 297, for five years, and for several years an officer of the Grand Lodge, and member of committees. His family consists of his wife and two daughters.