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Below is a family biography included in The History of Greene County, Illinois published by Donnelley, Gassette & Loyd 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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SPEAR, WILLIAM L. teacher, Sec. 33, P.O. Rockbridge. Among the successful teachers of this county, is the party whose name heads this sketch. Was born in Randolph County, Ill., Sept. 27, 1843; son of Lewis P., and Loureine Spear, whose maiden name was Stowe. The former is a native of Ashland County, Ohio, and the latter from Alabama. When quite young Wm. L., moved with his parents to Alton, where they remained until 1857, when they moved to Town 9, Range 11. Aug. 3, 1862, en listed in the 122 Regt. Ills. Vols., Co. C; remained with them until the close of the war; was in the battles of Parkers-Cross-Roads, Paducah, Nashville, Siege of Mobile; received an honorable discharge Aug. 3, 1865; upon his return, went to Macoupin Co., where he was engaged in teaching a short time. In 1867, came to this county, and has since continued teaching. April 7, 1870, was united in matrimony to Fannie Dews; born Aug. 11, 1844; by this union they have had three children: Harry L., born Feb. 10, 1872; Loureine C., born Oct. 19, 1874; William F., born Nov. 5, 1876. Has twice been elected justice of the peace. Was commissioned as notary public, Jan. 25, 1874; has since been reappointed, and now fills said office. Is a zealous worker in the Red Ribbon movement. Has studied law, and expects to be admitted to the bar soon. Is a member of Golden Rule Lodge, No. 1017; also Fayette Lodge, No. 107, A. F. & A. M. Republican in sentiment.
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This family biography is one of 744 biographies included in The History of Greene County, Illinois published in 1879. View the complete description here: The History of Greene County, Illinois
View additional Greene County, Illinois family biographies here: Greene County, Illinois Biographies
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