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Below is a family biography included in The History of McLean County, Illinois published by Wm. LeBaron, Jr. Co. 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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EZEKIEL ARROWSMITH, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Arrowsmith; owns 240 acres of fine farming land, worth $40 per acre. The subject of this sketch was born in Ross Co., Ohio, Oct. 31, 1811; lived with his father on the farm, engaged in farming, until 29 years of age; went to Indiana, stayed one summer, and returned to Ohio. He was married to Hannah M. Harrison Feb. 18, 1835, who was born in Bucks Co., Penn., Dec. 18, 1818, and died Feb. 14, 1840; the result of this marriage was four children — Mary C. (now wife of Samuel T. Bane), Elizabeth E., Samuel D. and Matilda; the former is the only one now living. Mr. Arrowsmith was then married to Mary A. Simpson Sept. 26, 1841; she was born in Ross Co., Ohio, Dec. 23, 1814; the fruit of this marriage was seven children — Sarepta, James A., Eliza J.; deceased — Martha, Melissa, Asa and Armelia. Mr. Arrowsmith has held the office of County Commissioner three years, Justice of the Peace four years, Supervisor of township four years, and School Director twenty years. He was among the first settlers in the township. The township, post office and town of Arrowsmith were all named after him, his being the first vote ever cast in the township. Mr. Arrowsmith is one of the most benevolent men in this county; he is regarded as a public benefactor in this township, where he still resides.

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This family biography is one of 1257 biographies included in The History of McLean County, Illinois published by Wm. LeBaron, Jr. Co. in 1879.  View the complete description here: The History of McLean County, Illinois

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

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