My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM M. COLLINGS, farmer and stock-raiser, section 1, post-office Brest. The subject of this sketch is a native of Indiana, born in Fountain county, Sept. 11, 1828. The family moved to Warren county, Ind., when our subject was but two years old, where they lived seven years, and from where they moved to what is now Piatt county, Ill. The family were among the first settlers of that now populous locality. Mr. Collings was a farmer’s son, and spent his youth in assisting on the farm and acquiring an education. The facilities for obtaining scholastic attainments at that early day were of course very limited, as compared with the present; however, he improved his mind by the means at his disposal. In 1850 he, in company with a party of adventurous young men, went overland to the gold fields of California, where he engaged at mining with varying success. At the end of five years he returned to his home in Illinois via Nicaraugua and New York. Invested his savings—the result of his toil and adventures—in the milling business. Erected a fine grist-mill near Monticello, Ill., which he operated until 1866, when he disposed of his interests there and became a citizen of Jasper county, Mo. His farm consists of 455 acres, about one-half in cultivation and the rest in woodland pasture. Proposes soon retiring from active farm duties and making his residence in the Queen City. He was married in Illinois, Nov. 28, 1880, to Miss Margaret Long, a native of Macon county, Ill., daughter of Joseph D. Long (deceased), a pioneer settler of that county, Mr. Collings and wife are of exceptional intelligence and information. Our most popular publications are to be found in their home, and many of the productions of our famous authors in their library. Mr. C. since his residence in the county has taken an active interest in public affairs and that which pertains to the public weal. He was active in the establishment of the agricultural society; was president and director, and worked hard for its perpetuity; has been closely identified with politics, and enjoys the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens.