CHARLES G. FALK.

Charles G. Falk, a well known agriculturist of Bishop Hill, was born in Jon- koping , Sweden , December 15, 1855 , his parents being John and Margaret Falk. In 1869 the former came to Bishop Hill, where he engaged in farming for the remainder of his life, which was brought to a close in 1905, when he was seventy nine years of age. His wife survived him until 1907, when she too was called to her eternal rest, at the age of eighty-seven years.

Charles G. Falk received almost all his education in the land of his birth, for he was fourteen years old when his parents came to the United States , and after his arrival here it was almost immediately necessary for him to make his own way in life. For a number of years he was employed as a farm hand, and then. in 1883, rented one hundred acres of land in Weller township, belonging to the society for the poor. This has since been his home, and on it he has made all the improvements which indicate his thrift and the progressive ideas which have guided him in the pursuit of his calling. In addition to operating this tract he tills forty acres on section 16 and 17, the same township, which he owns. His industry has been a means of his success for he is a skillful worker and a good manager. In regard for his integrity, which has ever distinguished the acts of his life, his fellow citizens have bestowed upon him several marks of their approval and they are unfailing in according to him their good will.

At his home, February 4, 1886 , Mr. Falk wedded Miss Olive Ericson. a daughter of Olaf Ericson. Eleven children have been born to the couple; all are living and range in age from twenty-two to four years. They are Frances Esther, Herbert Charles, August Elsworth, Margot, Minnie Olive, Wallace John, Blanch Lillian, Dewey Wilmokt, Alice Irene, Robert Vivian, and Elizabeth. The eldest is the wife of Leonard Spets; the others are all at home.

Since he has been admitted to citizenship in this republic and has been able to exercise his right of franchise, Mr. Falk has given his support in political mat­ ters invariably to the democratic party and has played no inconsiderable part in local affairs. For the past two terms, of two years each, he has been supervisor of the township, while for the last twenty years and more he has been school director. Also he is president of the board of directors of the Voluntary Donative Soctiety, an organization for the benefit of the poor, which owns the farm on which he resides. Fraternally he enjoys pleasant relations with the Modern Woodmen of America and with the Royal Neighbors.