My Genealogy Hound

JOSEPH BEARE. Probably no resident of Chester is more deserving of representation in this volume than Joseph Beare, who though a native of Berne, Switzerland, was a resident of this country for more than a half-century. Here he pursued a course which resulted in securing for him the hearty respect of those who knew him and gave him a proud rank among the farmers and business men of Randolph County. His death was mourned by all who knew him.

Our subject was born April 1, 1815, to Joseph and Margaret Beare. His parents emigrated to the United States when he was twelve years of age and spent a few years at Cleveland, Ohio. Coming to Randolph County and settling on a farm, they here spent the remainder of their days in ease and comfort. Joseph attended the schools of Switzerland, obtaining but a meager education, and after coming to America aided his father in cultivating the farm. From time to time he was enabled to purchase land of his own, and in its cultivation was more than ordinarily successful, and at the time of his demise was among the most progressive and extensive farmers in the county. Besides his agricultural interests he engaged in merchandising in Chester for a number of years, and also had large lumber interests in that city. There he was residing at the time of his death, which occurred August 5, 1887. In his demise the city and county lost one of their most valued citizens. He was a thoroughly practical man, of sturdy habits and excellent character, and his good deeds won for him a warm place in the hearts of his many friends.

In September, 1848, Mr. Beare married Miss Mary, daughter of James and Mary (Vance) Gillespie, who came from Tennessee to Randolph County, where they both died. Seven children came to bless the home of our subject and his wife, as follows: Nellie, who is the wife of William A. Reid and resides in St. Louis; Ida, Mrs. Bion McCloud, who makes her home in Chester; Lizzie, who married William Schuchert and also lives in Chester; and William, Joseph, Willis and Ernest, who are deceased. The good wife and mother is still living and makes her home with Mrs. McCloud. She is a Spiritualist in her religious views, as was also her beloved husband. In politics Mr. Beare was a Democrat and was very active for his party, having held many important city offices in Chester.