Untitled Document

Oquawka Spectator

10 April 1850

McFARLAND.

JOHN McFARLAND was born at Mt.Vernon, Knox county, Ohio, March 20th, 1828, and died at his home in Oquawka, Ill., Monday evening, April 14th, 1902, aged 74 years and 24 days. The deceased may be mentioned as among the early settlers of Oquawka, having come here with his parents, WILLIAM and NANCY McFARLAND, in 1841. His father was a carpenter by trade and followed the business for many years after his settlement here. Mr. McFARLAND was married to Miss ELLA KING, a daughter of ROBERT and NANCY KING of Oquawka, in August, 1855. To this union six children were born, four of whom are still living--FRANK E. of Oquawka, HARVEY and WALTER of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Mrs. C.J. EADS of Oquawka. Mr. McFarland made a trip to California in 1857, returning the next year. He began business in life as a shoremaker. At the outbreak of the Rebellion he owned a steam boat on the Mississippi river. For about thirty years he followed the lumber business. Retiring from the lumber trade he became interested in farming and became a large land owner. He was an excellent business man and acquired wealth, and his genial, pleasant manner made him many friends in whose memories he will ever have a place.

Mr. McFARLAND had been in feeble health for some time. On Friday last he was taken suddenly worse and soon all hope of his recovery was given up. His death was peaceful and without a struggle. Funeral services conducted by Rev. T.C. MOOTS were held from the M.E. church Wednesday afternoon, April 16th. The Odd Fellows then took charge of the remains and buried the deceased brother according to their ritual. Mr. McFARLAND was initiated in this society Dec 19th, 1855, the first meeting after the organization of Tranquil lodge, and has remained a member ever since. He had also been a member of Oquawka Masonic lodge for over 43 years.

Submitted by Peggy Carey

Illinois Ancestors