My Genealogy Hound

JOHN M. BURKHOLDER, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. McLean ; was born in Rockingham Co., Va., May 26, 1830. He remained there until 1852, engaged in farming, when he then moved to Knox Co., Ohio, and stayed there some two years; was engaged in teaching school during the winter at $18 per month, and farming in summer. In 1864, he came by himself to McLean Co., Ill., and settled on a small farm of forty acres, which he has now increased to 240, every particle of which has been earned by their own labor and management. For some time subsequent to his settlement on this farm, he was engaged in teaching during the winter; has taught two four-months’ terms in DeWitt Co. at $20, and three terms at Fremont, in Funk’s Grove Township, at $28. In 1862, he was in service, enlisting in the 68th I. V. I. On his return, he began teaching in Funk’s Grove at $30 per month. On April 9, 1863, he was married to Rebecca W. Bean, born in Connecticut, April 12, 1841. Immediately after marriage, they settled on his farm in Funk’s Grove Township, which they have made a magnificent home. He has held offices connected with schools, as Trustee of Funk’s Grove Township, for nine years; was also Collector of Revenue for two terms. He received but a limited education from instructors, but has improved every advantage of informing himself by securing valuable literature. They have had two children, viz.: Ira E., born Aug. 20, 1865; Bessie M., Oct. 19, 1878.