Ephraim Cooper 

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. EPHRAIM COOPER, who carries on general farming on section 21, township 12 north, range 4 west, of Henderson County, claims Indiana as the State of his nativity, for he was born in Wayne County on the 18th of December, 1825. His father, William Cooper, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was a farmer by occupation. After attaining to man's estate, he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Jennings, and they became the parents of nine children, only five of whom are now living, namely: John (see sketch in this work), Sarah, wife of M. Baldwin, of Indiana; Eunice; Mary, wife of S. Pickering; and Ephraim. Those who have passed away are Perry, Moses, Matilda and Anna. In taking up the personal history of Ephraim Cooper, we present to our readers the sketch of one who is widely and favorably known in this community, for he is numbered among the early settlers of the county. He acquired his education in the common schools of his native State, but his privileges in that direction were quite limited, for his services were needed at home, and when he could attend, the schools did not offer advantages of much importance. At length he determined to seek a home in Illinois, and on the 30th of December, 1854, arrived in Henderson County. He at once settled upon the farm which he still owns, and which has been his home continuously since. He was actively engaged in its operation until 1890, when he laid aside business cares and is now living a retired life. On the 25th of September, 1862, Mr. Cooper was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Morrel, and they became the parents of two children, namely: Charles W., who is now operating the home farm; and Effie M., the wife of W. T. Mason. The mother of this familv was called to her final rest on the 14th of April, 1890. She was a most estimable lady, and one who had the love and confidence of all who knew her. Mr. Cooper cast his first Presidential vote in 1848, supporting Gen. Zachary Taylor. On the organization of the Republican party, he joined its ranks, and has since advocated its men and measures. He has never been a politician in the sense of office-seeking, but served as County Commissioner for three years, and also as School Director. He was faithful to his public duties, and a trust reposed in him is never betrayed. His success in life is the reward of his own efforts, for he started out for himself with no capital save a young man's bright hope of the future and a determination to succeed. Steadily he worked his way upward until he had acquired a capital which now enables him to live a retired life, in the enjoyment of a rest which he has so truly earned and richly deserves.