Biographies

EMILY M. MITCHELL, who for many years has resided upon the farm where she now makes her home, on section 16, Gladstone Township, Henderson County, was born in Washington County, Ind., on the 27th of August, 1832.

Her father was John Salladay. He died about 1855, and his wife, Nancy (Driscoll) Salladay, survived him for many years, passing away about 1873. In their family were ten children, eight sons and two daughters, namely: John W., Elisha D. and Jacob (twins), Mark O., Mrs. Parthenia Crutchfield, Isaac M., Mrs. Emily Mitchell, Isaiah R., Milton and Elijah. Mrs. Mitchell spent the days of her girlhood in her parents' home, becoming familiar with all the duties of the household. There she remained until her marriage, on the 14th of November, 1849, when she became the wife of Samuel Mitchell, a son of Joseph Mitchell. He was born in Philadelphia, Pa., and was one of a family of ten children.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell was blessed with a family of five children, namely: Emma C, who was born November 19, 1861, and is now the wife of J. P. Scully; John C, who was born August 27, 1864; Iona Amelia, December 3, 1867: Ida O., June 10, 1871; and one who died in early childhood. When a young man. Samuel Mitchell came to Henderson County, and here spent his remaining days. In his youth good school privileges had been afforded him, and he had acquired an excellent education. He located in the southern part of this county, and soon began teaching, which profession he followed for several years. While still quite young, he was elected County Clerk of Henderson County, and proved a faithful and efficient officer, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. Before his marriage he purchased the home farm, and to this place brought his bride. He there carried on agricultural pursuits throughout the remainder of his life, placing the land under a high state of cultivation, and making many improvements, so that his farm became one of the valuable ones of the neighborhood. Mr. Mitchell lived a quiet and unassuming life, devoting the greater part of his time and attention to his business interests. He always had the respect and confidence of those with whom he came in contact, for he was honorable and upright in all things. He held membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, in politics, was a supporter of the Republican party and its principles. He passed away February 2, 1882, at the age of sixty-four years, and his death was deeply mourned by many friends.

Mrs. Mitchell yet lives upon the home farm with her children, and since her husband's death has managed its affairs, displaying good business and executive ability. She is a most estimable lady, and with her children ranks high in social circles. Her eldest daughter is a member of the Catholic Church, and the two youngest children hold membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church.

From the Portrait and biographical record of Hancock, McDonough and Henderson counties, Illinois : containing biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county (1894)
May, 1894. Lake City Publishing Co.