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Below is a family biography included in The History of Adams County, Illinois published by Murray, Williamson & Phelps in 1879.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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SHANAHAN J. J., contractor and builder, alley between 5th and Oak streets, and Maine and Jersey streets; residence, 8th street, between Vine and Oak streets; was born in Adams county, Ill., Dec. 5, 1844; commenced his apprenticeship as carpenter with Williamson & Jones, April 27, 1863. On Dec. 30, 1871, he was appointed foreman of buildings on the K. C., St. Joe & C. B. R. R.; held that position until June 30, 1874, when he resigned. In the fall of 1874, he returned to Quincy, working at his trade, and on Feb. 15, 1878, went into business for himself; married Miss Mary McCabe, at St. Joseph, Mo., Jan. 30, 1873. She was born in the County Monaghan, Ireland, July 4, 1851, and emigrated to America via New York City, with her mother and brother, in 1864, going to St. Louis, Mo.; remained eight years; from there to St. Joseph, Mo.; came with her husband to Quincy. He is a member of the Firemens’ Benevolent Association of Quincy, and was foreman of No. 1 Hose Company from 1866 till 1867; took the second running prize on the Fair Grounds at Quincy, Ill., it being the only prize ever taken by No. 1 Hose Company for running. Religion, Roman Catholic. Politics, Democrat.

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This family biography is one of 1444 biographies included in The History of Adams County, Illinois published by Murray, Williamson & Phelps in 1879.  View the complete description here: The History of Adams County, Illinois

View additional Adams County, Illinois family biographies here: Adams County, Illinois Biographies

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