My Genealogy Hound

THORPE, J. MARTIN, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 24, P.O. Greenfield. Prominent among the representatives of this township who are self-made, and have worked their way up to wealth through their own industry and individual exertions, is Mr. Thorpe, who was born in Drax, Yorkshire, England, Nov. 23, 1814. His father, William, was twice married; the second time to Ann Petly, who gave birth to J. Martin; his parents dying when he was quite young, and by their demise, he was thus left alone. At the age of 14, he embarked for America in company with Adam Allinson, now of Morgan County, and upon their arrival, located west of Jacksonville, Martin remaining with Mr. Allison until he became of age, in consideration of the amount of his passage money and a horse, saddle, and bridle; then hired to Mr. Allinson two years—first year, $10 per month; second year, $12 ½ per month. February, 1843, was united in marriage to, Anna Hembrough; one child, William H., born July 3, 1844, now in Missouri. Subsequent to this marriage, rented for two years of Mr. Allinson, then moved to Apple Creek Prairie, near White Hall; expected to remain here for good, but after contracting for some land, the trade not being consummated, he then moved to the place he now owns in 1846. His wife dying in 1845, he was united in marriage to Mrs. L. N. Bibb, February, 1846. Five children have blessed this union. James H., born July 9, 1848; Benjamin F., born April 30, 1850; Mary A., born February, 1852; Sarah Allinson, born Oct. 1854; Maria Otis, born Feb. 10, 1856. After his location, he first bought 120 acres, and began work with a right good will. He has since added to it until he now has 600 acres of choice land; also 440 acres in Cass County, Mo.; has been a man of great energy, and possessing, in a large degree, that ingredient so essential to success “pluck!”—has been a tireless worker, and always considered his word as valid as his note; has been engaged in stock-trading for several years past, and in this capacity been of much service to the county. His early education and association with a class of people whose honesty and integrity were unquestioned, has caused him to rely too much confidence in some who have taken advantage of this trust, and in consequence, he has become temporarily embarrassed; but not to an extent as to deprive any of his creditors of their just dues, having property enough, if disposed of at anything near its value to liquidate all his indebtedness, and then leave him a competence. There is no man in the county whose commercial honesty stands higher, or is more highly respected. Himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church. Republican in sentiment.