Biographies

GEORGE DANIEL CARPENTER, deceased, was a native of Louisville, Ky., born on the 21st of August, 1832. He was drowned on the 28th of March, 1881, in the Cana River, near Peru, Chautauqua County, Kan., while temporarily residing there for the benefit of his wife's health. He was buried in the cemetery west of Peru, as was also an infant son. He was respected by all who knew him, for his life was well spent, and his honorable, upright career gained him high regard.

He was one of three children (all of whom are now deceased) born unto Daniel and Esther (Duulap) Carpenter. They bore the names of William, Ann E. and George D.

The gentleman whose name heads this record was reared in his native State, and acquired a good education in Lexington, Ky. He first came to Henderson County, Ill., in 1848, when a youth of sixteen. Throughout his life he carried on agricultural pursuits, and was the owner of a well-cultivated farm in township 11, range 4, which, in its neat and thrifty appearance, indicated to the passer-by the careful supervision of the owner. Indolence and idleness were utterly foreign to his nature, and his perseverance and well-directed efforts brought him a comfortable competence.

On the 12th of May, 1858, Mr. Carpenter was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Margery A. Pollock, daughter of James F. and Rebecca (McFarland) Pollock. They became the parents of nine children, but four of whom are living, namely: Annie A., wife of J. M. Welsh; Marv R, wife of D. Z. Gardner, a resident of Springfield, Ohio; J. Ross Carpenter, who is living in Little York; and Guy E., who makes his home with his mother. William R., the eldest child, is now deceased, and Albert M., George M. and Alonzo E. have also passed away, beside one who died in infancy.

During the late war, Mr. Carpenter was found among the loyal defenders of the Union. In July, 1862, he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in Company C, Ninety-first Illinois Infantry. He continued in the service as one of the heroes in blue until after the war was over, when, on the 8th of July, 1865, he was honorably discharged in St. Louis.

In politics, he was a Democrat, but never aspired to public office. Socially, he was connected with Tranquil Lodge No. 193, I. O. O. F., of Oquawka. He was true to even trust reposed in him, whether public or private, was a valued citizen, a kind friend and neighbor, and a loving and tender husband and father.

His wife, a most estimable lady, still survives him, and with her youngest son is now living in township 12, range 4.

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.