Biography - JOSEPH MONTGOMERY

Joseph Montgomery, Jr., deceased, was actively engaged in the pursuits of general farming in Macoupin County from 1872 until the time of his death, June 23, 1898. He was born in 1815, near Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia), and was a son of Joseph and Mary (Gray) Montgomery.

Joseph Montgomery was a native of Ireland, and came to America with his wife about 1810; having followed farming in his native country, he again engaged at that independent calling. He and his wife, who were members of the Methodist Church, died in the seventies.

Joseph Montgomery, Jr., received his education in the schools of Virginia, and remained on the homestead farm) while in the early years of manhood. Later he learned the millwright's trade, which he followed for some time; however, it was not to his liking and he again engaged in the pursuits of general farming. In 1837 he came to Illinois, locating near Scottville, Macoupin County, where he purchased a farm which he cultivated until within a few years of his death. He was possessed of more than ordinary energy and good judgment. He was well known and most highly esteemed by his fellow citizens. Politically, our subject was a stanch Democrat, using his utmost influence in the promotion of that party's interests, although he never aspired to any political office.

In 1839 our subject was married to Elizabeth Sharp, who was born in Tennessee, October 23, 1820; to them 14 children were born, two of whom are still living, namely: Henry H., an attorney of Carrollton, Illinois, and Winnie (Hicks), widow of William Hicks, who now resides near Nilwood, Illinois. Mrs. Montgomery, our subject's widow, is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, of which her husband was also a member. She is still an active woman and undertakes remarkable tasks for one of her age.

Extracted 2018 May 04 by Norma Hass from Biographical Sketches of Leading Citizens of Macoupin County, Illinois, published in 1904, pages 51-52.