My Genealogy Hound

Richard C. Shearlock, a boot and shoemaker, of Festus, was born in Kaskaskia, Ill., on October 26, 1833, and is the eldest of the ten children born to Timothy H. and Peliga (Montroy) Shearlock, who were of Irish and French descent, respectively. Richard C. received a limited common-school education, and spent his life with his parents until his twenty-first year, during which time he learned the shoemaker’s trade with his father, who carried on a tannery business in connection with manufacturing boots and shoes. From home, Richard C. went to Sparta, Ill., where he engaged in manufacturing three years, and the following three years drove a team to and from St. Louis. August 1, 1855, he married Mrs. Mary E. Bartell, who died in August, 1860, the mother of one child, also deceased. Mr. Shearlock is now living with his second wife, whose maiden name was Virginia Montreville, to whom he was married June 14, 1863. This marriage was blessed with the following children: Henry A., Robert C., Richard T., Mary E., William, one infant unnamed, and Florence, all of whom are deceased but the eldest and youngest. After leaving Sparta, Mr. Shearlock returned to his home on account of his father’s death; he remained with his mother for about one year, and has since been engaged in various pursuits in different places. In 1881 he located in Festus and re-engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes, which he has continued up to the present time. Mr. Shearlock is a member of the I. O. G. T., and with his wife holds membership in the Presbyterian Church. In political faith he is a Democrat.