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.
|