My Genealogy Hound

JOHN DEVINE. The foreign born citizens of this county are coming rapidly to the front in various lines of business, and among the residents of Chester the gentleman above named is one of the shrewdest business men. He began his life career with no capital but his natural endowments, a common-school education and a strong will. At present he is engaged in the saloon, tobacco and cigar trade in this city, to which he has also added that of an ice dealer.

Born in County Galway, Ireland, November 15, 1837, our subject is a son of Philip and Margaret (Reddington) Devine. He was a lad of sixteen years when he determined to emigrate to the New World, and on coming hither, in 1854, landed in New York City, whence he went to Chicago, Ill., and later to Centralia, Wis. After four years spent there, and after being variously employed for some time on the river and in other ways, he settled at Cairo, this state, and clerked for Samuel Wilson in a boot store. After making that city his home from 1862 to 1869, he came up the river to Grand Tower, and in 1877 became a resident of this city.

On taking up his abode in Chester, Mr. Devine established a meat market, and at the same time did a good business as a dealer in ice, remaining thus employed for the succeeding two years. At the expiration of that time he engaged in the saloon business, and has a well equipped establishment located on Water Street.

John Devine and Miss Ida Jones were united in marriage in 1875. The lady was born near Cape Girardeau and was a daughter of Silas and Eveline Jones. To them were born three sons and five daughters, namely: Cora, John, Jr.; Edna, Philip and James (twins), Winnefred, Gertrude and Eveline. The eldest daughter died when in her seventeenth year.

Mr. Devine is a straightforward, prompt and methodical business man, and his success has contributed to the upbuilding of Chester. In politics he gives his stanch support to the Democratic party. While a resident of Jackson County, this state, he filled the offices of Coroner and Deputy Sheriff for two years, and in every position to which he was called, always gave the utmost satisfaction. He is an influential politician and has many warm friends, who recognize him as a leader and one entirely capable of fulfilling any duty imposed upon him.