Benjamin Frederick

Taken from his 1923 obituary (edited for clarity).

Benjamin Frederick was born February 26, 1839, at Schuylkill Haven, Pa.  When he was only a boy, the family moved to Circleville, Ohio.  In 1856, they decided to come west to the state of Illinois.  The journey was made overland in wagons.  The country was still primitive, and life was a difficult and serious struggle for existence.  Mr. Frederick was young and active and had his due share in the pioneer life of this part of the state.  When the family arrived in Washington, there were no houses to be rented, so they lived in the unused old church for a while.  Later, they lived near Deer Creek, and Benjamin worked hard. By living industriously and economically, he saved enough money to start a business.

In 1863, he opened a harness shop in this city and continued in this work until his death.  For just about 60 years, he was identified with the business life of this community and was the oldest active businessman in this section.  His most scrupulous honesty and careful work gained him a good reputation.  He was universally honored and respected by those with whom he had business relations.  He took pride in his work and always tried to put out only the best.  He was a good workman, and that is as fine a tribute as can be given any man in this respect.

He was always deeply interested in the progress and welfare of the community and the country.  As a good citizen, he was active in civic affairs.  His fellow citizens had great respect for his honesty and ability.  For 16 years, he was an alderman of this city and mayor for two years.  He also served for two years as deputy sheriff of Tazewell County.

His home life was beautiful.  He married Miss Caroline Stormer on November 10, 1868, Rev. H. Hintze performing the ceremony.  They lived together for over fifty-four years, and their married life was a most happy one.  Four children were born to them—two sons and two daughters.  He was a very kind and loving husband and father.  He clung to his family with the most tender devotion.  Our sympathy goes out especially to the aged widow who stood at his side so long and whose life was so thoroughly intertwined with his.  They seemed to be inseparable.  But the rude hand of death does not stop by these ties of tender love, and the earthly bonds that bound them together for so long have been broken for a time.

Mr. Frederick was always well and very active despite his old age.  Those who have watched his regular trips between his home and shop will miss him greatly.  His genial disposition won him friendship continually.  He liked to be busy at his work among his fellow men.