My Genealogy Hound

THOMAS B. MARTIN, farmer and stock-raiser, section 14, post-office Carthage. Is a native of Great Britain, born in the town of Ramsey, Isle of Man, Feb. 15, 1835; was there reared to manhood and acquired a business education. At the age of seventeen, was apprenticed to the boot and shoe maker’s trade, which business he followed in his native Isle, as also in many of the manufacturing cities of England. Immigrated to the United States in 1855, locating in the city of Peoria, Ill., where he lived five years, then moved to Fairbury, Livingston county, where he engaged at farming Was married in that place in Dec, 1862, to Miss Catharine Truman, a native of Champlain county, Ill. Of this union there are seven children: Lucy Mona, Horace W., Arthur P., Maud, Percy T., Blanche A., and Harry T. He moved to Champaign county in 1863, lived there two years; then in Fairbury two years; from there went to Nebraska, where he engaged in farming quite extensively; owned a farm of 1,400 acres in Gage county; not liking the country he disposed of his farm, as also some city property. Made a visit to southwest Mo., in 1868, and being favorably impressed with the beauty of the scenery and mildness of the climate, he determined to make Jasper county his future home. The following spring moved his avails here and engaged in farming and stock-raising; has handled stock quite extensively; was for some years the most important shipper at Carthage. His farm consists of 240 acres, admirably situated, four miles from Carthage. The value of the premises is enhanced by good substantial buildings, a beautiful lawn in front of the house, shaded by magnificent forest trees. Keeps from 100 to 200 head of stock; also horses, mules, and swine in goodly numbers. Mr. Martin is a fine vocalist, and has ever taken deep interest in instructing the young in that most desirable accomplishment.